PFF says that Wisconsin has one of the highest rated safeties heading into the season

The Wisconsin Badgers are just a few days away from opening up fall camp and getting the season underway. As they head into camp, they will have one of the best safeties in the Big Ten on their roster. Preston Zachman is rated the fourth-best safety in the Big Ten by PFF at 80.4. He is behind Koi Perich, Alex McLaughlin, and Caleb Downs.

Zachman is a known commodity going into the season, and many won't be surprised by this. However, Wisconsin head coach Luke Fickell has identified Austin Brown, his counterpart, as one of the breakout players of the year. The Badgers may have the best safety room in the conference.

Preston Zachman and Austin Brown may be the best safety combo in the Big Ten

Zachman started five games in 2023 and then became a full-time starter last season. He had an impressive season with 58 tackles, three tackles for loss, two interceptions, and a pass breakup. He knows how to fly around the field and make an impact at every level. He can disrupt passes but also play downhill to get a running back trying to get to the second level.

Austin Brown, as his counterpart, is finally getting his full-time starting role, which is what Luke Fickell is interested in next season. These two together could end up being one of the most impressive parts of the defense next season.

These two will be needed next season as the Wisconsin Badgers face the toughest schedule in the entire Big Ten. Having to face off against some of the top wide receivers in the country. They will also be seeing the electric (now) sophomore Ryan Williams of Alabama, who is already being listed as a dark horse candidate for the Heisman. There's also Jeremiah Smith for Ohio State, who is considered maybe the best wide receiver in the country.

It won't be easy for the Badgers, and Zachman and Brown will be called upon to make critical third-down stops this season.