Badgers' Starting Safety Dealing With Injury Late in Fall Camp

Wisconsin football is already dealing with two high-profile injuries along the right side of its offensive line: starting tackle Kevin Heywood and starting guard Emerson Mandell.

There's been a few other bumps and bruises observed at fall camp, but by and large, those two are easily the most crucial injuries we're tracking as the Badgers' primetime showdown versus Notre Dame at Lambeau Field creeps ever closer.

But another notable injury has popped up with just two practices remaining for the Badgers: starting safety Marvin Burks Jr.

The Missouri transfer was observed to be injured by Badgers On SI at fall camp practice No. 13, but also donning his helmet, cleats and other gear.

After practice, in true college coach form, defensive coordinator Mike Tressel appeared bristled by a reporter asking him about Burks. He went into a monologue about how Burks has become a leader on the defense, before being pressed further to which he finally replied:

“I think you’ll see Marvin have a little splint on soon, and rocking and rolling. Like, soon.”

That doesn't sound as if the Badgers' coaching staff is all that concerned with the injury to Burks. But it's worth mentioning, even if Wisconsin thinks (or hopes) that it's nothing serious.

Updating the Badgers' safety room

Wisconsin safeties coach Jack Cooper. | Courtesy of Jake Kocorowski

Wisconsin's safety room looks to be in a better spot than last season. That is, if a starter were to go down with an injury, the Badgers wouldn't have to rely on a transfer from either the FCS or D-III level to step into his spot.

If Burks were to go down, the Badgers have a few options. Iowa State transfer Carson Van Dinter is probably at the top of the list. He got some real experience in Ames last fall, and his speed/physicality combination is enticing. Based off his experience and traits, I'd go with Van Dinter as the top backup to Burks.

Otherwise, Cairo Skanes is an option. The versatile defensive back saw 80 snaps last fall in his true freshman season, getting his feet wet in the Big Ten. His alignment/positional versatility helped him earn snaps early in his career, but Van Dinter might still be ahead of him in line for a true starting role.

Former FCS Richmond transfer Matthew Traynor remains in the room. He was banged up at the start of fall camp, but he's gotten healthier and has made some plays towards the back half of the fall.

Ultimately, Burks would be the biggest loss if someone were to go down in Wisconsin's safety room. His experience and production are unmatched. Nonetheless, the Badgers do look better equipped to replace a starting safety this fall.

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