Badger Football Records That Could be Broken This Year

With the new transfer rules, it's becoming more and more uncommon that players play their entire collegiate career with just one team. Because of that, a lot of Wisconsin career stats records will probably never be broken. Ron Dayne's 7,125 rushing yards or Jim Leonard's 21 interceptions will most likely hold for a very, very long time. But that doesn't mean single season records can't be broken, and there are a few in 2024 that could end up with new name at the top.

Single-Season Receptions

Current Record: Jared Abbrederis - 78

Will Pauling hauled in 74 catches last year, good for fifth all-time in a Badger season, despite the fact his starting quarterback missed several games. With another year inside offensive coordinator Phil Longo's air-raid system and a new quarterback behind center, there's a good chance he can break the single-season record of 78 receptions. He had five games of 8+ catches in 2023, so the only concern is that defenses could start to key in on the standout slot receiver now that the secret is out.

Single-Season Passing Yards

Current Record: Russell Wilson - 3,175

Only four Badger quarterbacks have ever thrown for more that 2,700 yards in a season, and newcomer Tyler Van Dyke has done it twice in the last three years. He obviously played on completely different teams in different systems, but I can tell you he did not join Phil Longo in Madison to just hand the ball off. The run game is still a strong part of Wisconsin's identity, but Van Dyke gives the Badgers a real chance to eclipse the 3,000 yards passing mark for just the second time in school history.

Single-Season Field Goals Made

Current Record: Rich Thompson - 22

Another offensive record, weird right? Well, fortunately or unfortunately the Badgers' defenses have had some pretty incredible seasons already. But the all-time field goal record for a season seems in reach. Nathanial Vakos hit just 15 last season in a down year offensively. If Longo and Van Dyke put out a year like they are expecting, drives could end up in opponent territory much more this season. Vakos is the second most accurate kicker in Badger history (after one year), so he has the leg to break 22.