Spotlight on Wisconsin Badgers: Unveiling Players of the Game and Freshman of the Week
Oct 21, 2023; Champaign, Illinois, USA; Wisconsin Badgers wide receiver Will Pauling (6) grabs a touchdown pass in front of Wisconsin Badgers defensive back Tyler Strain (20) during the second half at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ron Johnson-USA TODAY Sports
© Ron Johnson-USA TODAY Sports
Badgers Overcome the Odds
The Wisconsin Badgers had a rollercoaster of a game last Saturday, clinching an intense 25-21 victory over the Illinois Fighting Illini. After struggling in the first half the Badgers pulled off a stunning comeback, highlighting the skills of certain standout performers in the process.
Unpacking Wisconsin Badgers' Stellar Performances
Head Coach Luke Fickell took to social media platform X, previously known as Twitter, to announce his Players of the Game. For the offense, it was a two-way tie between Braelon Allen and Will Pauling. On the defensive end, safety Hunter Wohler earned the accolade, and for special teams, Marty Strey was named.
The Offensive Dynamo: Braelon Allen and Will Pauling
The Big Ten's leading rusher, Braelon Allen, ran an impressive 145 yards for the Badgers. Will Pauling, on the other hand, emerged as a reliable target, making crucial plays that helped advance Wisconsin. Their performances undoubtedly contributed to Wisconsin's late-game resurgence.
Defense and Special Teams: The Unsung Heroes
Hunter Wohler provided a much-needed backbone to the Badgers' defense, making it tough for Illinois to expand on their lead. Marty Strey's special teams contribution did not go unnoticed either. The duo was lauded by Fickell as the Players of the Game in their respective categories. Strey was previously named Player of the Game when Wisconsin took on Rutgers.
Oct 21, 2023; Champaign, Illinois, USA; Wisconsin Badgers quarterback Braedyn Locke (18) celebrates a 25-21 win over the Illinois Fighting Illini during the second half at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ron Johnson-USA TODAY Sports
© Ron Johnson-USA TODAY Sports
The Rising Star: Braedyn Locke
It was a big day for redshirt freshman quarterback Braedyn Locke. Named the Big Ten Freshman of the Week, Locke's performance was nothing short of spectacular.
Locke led the Badgers past Illinois in his first-ever collegiate start, overcoming a 21-7 deficit in the fourth quarter. This win gave the Badgers their first Big Ten win in regulation after trailing by 14 or more points in the fourth quarter since 1946.
Locke is the first Badger to earn the title since Braelon Allen, who was recognized twice in 2021. He is also the first Badger quarterback to get this accolade since Graham Mertz in 2020.
A Legacy in the Making
This recent game not only gave fans a thrilling victory but also highlighted the up-and-coming talents within the Badgers' roster. From Braelon Allen's continued dominance to Braedyn Locke's breakthrough performance, the future looks promising for Wisconsin football. These key players are proving themselves to be foundational pieces as the team continues its pursuit of excellence, stamping their names as the Wisconsin Badgers Players of the Game.
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