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Wisconsin Badgers' hidden gem added to Comeback Player of the Year watch list

The Wisconsin Badgers defensive stud isn't talked about among the best players at his position, but he's starting to get some recognition for his breakout season.
Lorin Cox|
Sep 20, 2025; Madison, Wisconsin, USA; Wisconsin Badgers linebacker Mason Reiger (22) reacts following a tackle during the third quarter against the Maryland Terrapins at Camp Randall Stadium.
Sep 20, 2025; Madison, Wisconsin, USA; Wisconsin Badgers linebacker Mason Reiger (22) reacts following a tackle during the third quarter against the Maryland Terrapins at Camp Randall Stadium. | Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images

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Wisconsin Badgers

Mason Reiger isn't talked about among the top pass rushers in the country, but the Wisconsin Badgers' defensive end has been a hidden gem amid a season of struggles.

He's starting to get some recognition for his excellence, though. On Friday, he was added to the watch list for the Comeback Player of the Year Award.

Reiger's three sacks this season don't tell the story of how good he's been for the Badgers' defense.

According to PFF, he also recorded three QB hits and his 20 QB hurries are good for the second-most in the Big Ten this season.

Reiger has been equally impactful in the running game, where he sets a strong edge that is a focal point for Wisconsin's ability to shut down running backs.

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His 12 run stops this season ranks fourth in the Big Ten. PFF's data shows that his tackles in the running game come after opposing ball carriers gain an average of just 1.7 yards per carry.

Reiger has been a huge boost to the Badgers' defensive line after his missed most of last season at Louisville with an injury.

Wisconsin has been confident in what his talent could provide. The only question was whether he could stay healthy.

Luke Fickell has been enjoying the fruits of Reiger's comeback, and the national award committee is taking notice too.

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Lorin Cox
LORIN COX

Lorin Cox is the managing editor of Wisconsin Badgers on SI. He has been covering Badgers sports since 2014, when he was an undergraduate at the University of Wisconsin. He previously wrote for the Wisconsin State Journal, NBC Sports Chicago and USA Today Sports Media Group, and he is a former analyst for Pro Football Focus.

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