Latest news with #2025SpringShowcase
Yahoo
21-04-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Three takeaways from Wisconsin football's Spring Showcase
The Wisconsin Badgers hosted their 2025 Spring Showcase this past Saturday, giving fans a first glimpse at the 2025 team and how offseason transfer additions will fit into new offensive coordinator Jeff Grimes' scheme. The event also provided head coach Luke Fickell an opportunity to showcase what he's been working on this offseason after an underwhelming 5-7 2024 campaign. Wisconsin added key transfers at many positions of need, including at quarterback and along the defensive line. Those positions were under the spotlight on Saturday as the two spots that the Badgers needed to improve the most. At first glance, it seems as if the coaching staff landed some significant difference-makers in both groups. Advertisement In addition to those who transferred in, the Spring Showcase was also a first glimpse at some of the program's young talent, including class of 2025 early enrollees. Several such players, both on offense and defense, have a chance to make an impact from day one. For more, here are three primary takeaways from Wisconsin's Spring Showcase, plus what each means for the 2025 season: 1. More dynamic offensive play-calling from new OC Jeff Grimes Offensive coordinator Jeff Grimes joined the Badgers this offseason, looking to help the program improve from one of its worst seasons offensively (and overall) in program history. His dynamic, more traditional Wisconsin-style offense was on display during Saturday's showcase with many creative play calls, including end-arounds, screen passes, and fullback dives. Advertisement It's also clear that Jeff Grimes is a lot more comfortable calling plays with his offense under center, which was one of the biggest criticisms of former offensive coordinator Phil Longo and his air-raid offense. Grimes' play-calls also reminded many of the dynamic and unique plays that Paul Chryst employed during his time as Wisconsin offensive coordinator and head coach. However, Grimes' offense fits the modern Big Ten better than Chryst's did with more of an emphasis on passing and quarterback play. 2. Defense has made necessary improvements Wisconsin struggled defensively last season. The unit's output had many fans frustrated, considering the program's reputation for holding their opponents to low-scoring outputs. Defensive coordinator Mike Tressel and head coach Luke Fickell mentioned throughout the offseason that they wanted to add size and depth along the defensive line, a position that in 2024 ranked 121st out of 134 FBS teams in run defense per Pro Football Focus. Improving that status was a key focus of the offseason. On Saturday, it was clear that the coaching staff's hard work has paid off so far. The new and improved Badgers defensive line looks a lot bigger, stronger, and agile than it did last season. Transfers Charles Perkins, Jay'viar Suggs, and Tyreese Fearbry have all impressed early on, while early enrollee Nick Clayton has already made a name for himself early during his short time in Madison. As for the secondary, there were many concerns coming into the spring session that losing key pieces including Hunter Wohler and Xavier Lucas would hurt the defense significantly. So far, the defensive back room has slowly but surely improved, with players including Preston Zachman and Matt Jung making headlines during spring practices. During the spring showcase, both cornerbacks Jaimier Scott and Geimere Latimer put on a show with some nice broken-up and contested passes. The defensive line was clearly the bigger area of concern during the winter for the Wisconsin coaching staff, but seeing progress in the secondary is just as important. 3. Young players are coming into their own Luke Fickell's best skill as a coach is his recruiting. That ability was one of the primary reasons for his success at Cincinnati and why he was Chris McIntosh's choice to succeed Paul Chryst. In his first two full recruiting cycles, Fickell and his staff landed back to back top 25 classes. Those young stars are finally seeing the field, emergences that have been exciting to watch. Advertisement Wide receiver Eugene Hilton has made headlines as one of the most talented receivers on the team, while young defenders, including Clayton and Scott, have excelled during their time in spring practices. Plus, both linebacker Mason Posa and Jaylen Williams weren't able to enroll early like many of the players in the class. The fact that the young guns have played well with neither Posa nor Williams on campus bodes well for the program's future. Overall, there is obviously still work to be done. The offense was shaky during a couple of drives on Saturday, plus there are several injuries at offensive line and receiver that the team needs to overcome. There is still a lot to be excited about with the 2025 team. The new scheme from Jeff Grimes, mixed with some improvements defensively, gives the Badgers a chance to have a better season than last year. Wisconsin's schedule is extremely difficult, but you never know what can happen in college football. Contact/Follow @TheBadgersWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Wisconsin Badgers news, notes and opinion This article originally appeared on Badgers Wire: Wisconsin football Spring Showcase takeaways
USA Today
21-04-2025
- Sport
- USA Today
Three takeaways from Wisconsin football's Spring Showcase
Three takeaways from Wisconsin football's Spring Showcase The Wisconsin Badgers hosted their 2025 Spring Showcase this past Saturday, giving fans a first glimpse at the 2025 team and how offseason transfer additions will fit into new offensive coordinator Jeff Grimes' scheme. The event also provided head coach Luke Fickell an opportunity to showcase what he's been working on this offseason after an underwhelming 5-7 2024 campaign. Wisconsin added key transfers at many positions of need, including at quarterback and along the defensive line. Those positions were under the spotlight on Saturday as the two spots that the Badgers needed to improve the most. At first glance, it seems as if the coaching staff landed some significant difference-makers in both groups. In addition to those who transferred in, the Spring Showcase was also a first glimpse at some of the program's young talent, including class of 2025 early enrollees. Several such players, both on offense and defense, have a chance to make an impact from day one. For more, here are three primary takeaways from Wisconsin's Spring Showcase, plus what each means for the 2025 season: 1. More dynamic offensive play-calling from new OC Jeff Grimes Offensive coordinator Jeff Grimes joined the Badgers this offseason, looking to help the program improve from one of its worst seasons offensively (and overall) in program history. His dynamic, more traditional Wisconsin-style offense was on display during Saturday's showcase with many creative play calls, including end-arounds, screen passes, and fullback dives. It's also clear that Jeff Grimes is a lot more comfortable calling plays with his offense under center, which was one of the biggest criticisms of former offensive coordinator Phil Longo and his air-raid offense. Grimes' play-calls also reminded many of the dynamic and unique plays that Paul Chryst employed during his time as Wisconsin offensive coordinator and head coach. However, Grimes' offense fits the modern Big Ten better than Chryst's did with more of an emphasis on passing and quarterback play. 2. Defense has made necessary improvements Wisconsin struggled defensively last season. The unit's output had many fans frustrated, considering the program's reputation for holding their opponents to low-scoring outputs. Defensive coordinator Mike Tressel and head coach Luke Fickell mentioned throughout the offseason that they wanted to add size and depth along the defensive line, a position that in 2024 ranked 121st out of 134 FBS teams in run defense per Pro Football Focus. Improving that status was a key focus of the offseason. On Saturday, it was clear that the coaching staff's hard work has paid off so far. The new and improved Badgers defensive line looks a lot bigger, stronger, and agile than it did last season. Transfers Charles Perkins, Jay'viar Suggs, and Tyreese Fearbry have all impressed early on, while early enrollee Nick Clayton has already made a name for himself early during his short time in Madison. As for the secondary, there were many concerns coming into the spring session that losing key pieces including Hunter Wohler and Xavier Lucas would hurt the defense significantly. So far, the defensive back room has slowly but surely improved, with players including Preston Zachman and Matt Jung making headlines during spring practices. During the spring showcase, both cornerbacks Jaimier Scott and Geimere Latimer put on a show with some nice broken-up and contested passes. The defensive line was clearly the bigger area of concern during the winter for the Wisconsin coaching staff, but seeing progress in the secondary is just as important. 3. Young players are coming into their own Luke Fickell's best skill as a coach is his recruiting. That ability was one of the primary reasons for his success at Cincinnati and why he was Chris McIntosh's choice to succeed Paul Chryst. In his first two full recruiting cycles, Fickell and his staff landed back to back top 25 classes. Those young stars are finally seeing the field, emergences that have been exciting to watch. Wide receiver Eugene Hilton has made headlines as one of the most talented receivers on the team, while young defenders, including Clayton and Scott, have excelled during their time in spring practices. Plus, both linebacker Mason Posa and Jaylen Williams weren't able to enroll early like many of the players in the class. The fact that the young guns have played well with neither Posa nor Williams on campus bodes well for the program's future. Overall, there is obviously still work to be done. The offense was shaky during a couple of drives on Saturday, plus there are several injuries at offensive line and receiver that the team needs to overcome. There is still a lot to be excited about with the 2025 team. The new scheme from Jeff Grimes, mixed with some improvements defensively, gives the Badgers a chance to have a better season than last year. Wisconsin's schedule is extremely difficult, but you never know what can happen in college football. Contact/Follow @TheBadgersWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Wisconsin Badgers news, notes and opinion
USA Today
20-04-2025
- Sport
- USA Today
Wisconsin football updated 2025 offense depth chart projection after Spring Showcase
Wisconsin football updated 2025 offense depth chart projection after Spring Showcase Wisconsin football took the field at Camp Randall Stadium for its 2025 Spring Showcase on Saturday. The open, full-scrimmage practice acts as the program's de facto spring game. It gave fans a comprehensive first look at the 2025 roster, plus a hint at what to expect on both sides of the football when the season kicks off. A major underlying storyline persisted entering Saturday's event, as Wisconsin continues to address its roster needs in the spring transfer window. The Badgers have seen notable winter transfer additions Tanner Koziol and Mark Hamper transfer out, as well as veteran wide receiver Quincy Burroughs. Those departures, paired with a season-ending injury to starting left tackle Kevin Heywood, make this period critical to the team's chances this upcoming season. So, with much still to change as transfer movement continues, here is an updated two-deep projection for the offensive side of the football after the program's Spring Showcase. The major headlines are at running back, where a veteran appears poised for a breakout, and left tackle, where Wisconsin needs an experienced transfer starter. Quarterback Starter: Billy Edwards Jr. (transfer) Backup: Danny O'Neil (transfer) Wisconsin is strong at quarterback after the winter transfer cycle. Billy Edwards could be a top-tier starting option, with O'Neil bringing a rare combination of experience (11 starts) and remaining eligibility (three years). True freshman Carter Smith also brings a ton of potential. Hopefully, O'Neil and Smith aren't mentioned as on-field factors until the 2025 season concludes. Running Back Starter: Cade Yacamelli Backup: Darrion Dupree Yacamelli was a spring showcase standout with Dupree sidelined. The redshirt junior made a 55-yard house call on an inside carry, providing the session's top highlight. Yacamelli took 33 carries for 274 yards (8.3 yards per carry) last season. That efficiency, combined with Saturday's scrimmage, points to a potential breakout. Don't discount Dupree as a major factor. The rising sophomore has the potential to be the best player on the offensive unit, although he's only a sophomore and has yet to handle a full workload. Yacamelli as a 1A and Dupree as a 1B could provide the Badgers with an impressive rushing attack. Wide Receiver (1) Starter: Vinny Anthony Backup: Chris Brooks Jr. Nothing has changed at this position since the 2024 season concluded, other than projected top backup options Hamper and Burroughs transferring out. Anthony still projects as the team's top wide receiver, with Chris Brooks as an intriguing backup option. Wide Receiver (2) Starter: Jayden Ballard Backup: Joseph Griffin Jr. OR Tyrell Henry Ballard has reportedly been a spring standout after transferring in from Ohio State. Hamper's departure could signal where Ballard stands on the depth chart: the team's clear No. 2 option on the outside. 2024 transfer addition Joseph Griffin should also play a role in red-zone situations. While the position has clear starting options, it may need some added depth. Wide Receiver (slot) Starter: Trech Kekahuna Backup: Kyan Berry-Johnson Wisconsin's starting receiver trio of Anthony, Ballard and Kekahuna appears clear. Berry-Johnson could be a candidate for more snaps after seeing limited playing time as a true freshman last season. Tight End Starter: Tucker Ashcraft Backup: J.T. Seagreaves Tight end is a major position to watch after Koziol's departure. Ashcraft has been one of the position's primary contributors for the last few seasons, albeit in a Phil Longo offense that seldom utilized the position. The Badgers will likely look to add a transfer to start alongside the rising junior. Right Tackle Starter: Riley Mahlman Backup: Barrett Nelson From our updated offensive line depth chart after Heywood's injury: Mahlman is set to anchor the right side of the Badgers' offensive line for the third consecutive season. He could be a candidate to flip to the left side, though that would be a risky move, given his proven ability and production in his current position. It goes without saying that the team cannot afford an injury in this position, given Heywood's status. Right Guard Starter: Kerry Kodanko Backup: J.P. Benzschawel From our updated offensive line depth chart after Heywood's injury: Wisconsin's right guard position will be a fall camp battle to watch. J.P. Benzschawel was the projected starter through much of the offseason, though Kodanko has reportedly been earning significant reps in spring practice. Emerson Mandell also worked at this position, though he may move out to left tackle after Heywood's injury. Center Starter: Jake Renfro Backup: Ryan Cory From our updated offensive line depth chart after Heywood's injury: Renfro returns after starting 12 games for the Badgers last season. The veteran also has a season of high-end experience at Cincinnati under Luke Fickell. While there are some questions across the line, the center position should be set. Left Guard Starter: Joe Brunner Backup: Colin Cubberly From our updated offensive line depth chart after Heywood's injury: Brunner started all 12 games at left guard in 2024. While he battled minor injuries throughout the campaign, he was part of a starting offensive line unit that remained intact all season. Per UW Athletics, his 77.8 PFF pass-blocking grade was the third-highest among Big Ten guards. He projects as one of the team's best linemen entering 2025 Of note, Brunner spent some time at left tackle during the spring showcase. He remains a candidate to fill that vacancy. Left Tackle Starter: Leyton Nelson Backup: Emerson Mandell From our updated offensive line depth chart after Heywood's injury: Nelson transferred in last offseason after two seasons at Vanderbilt, during which he appeared in 12 total games. He then missed the entire 2024 season with a knee injury. The veteran was projected as a versatile depth piece on the 2025 line. Now, he has the inside track at starting Of course, many of these positions are subject to change with spring transfer additions. Left tackle is the No. 1 storyline to watch during the period, then as fall camp approaches. Contact/Follow @TheBadgersWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Wisconsin Badgers news, notes and opinion
