The Wisconsin Badgers have their first big test when they travel to Tuscaloosa to face the Alabama Crimson Tide in Week 3.
Now, headlines are already buzzing on both sides, as the Badgers had a dominant defensive performance in their 17-0 Week 1 win over Miami (OH), while the Crimson Tide was arguably the most disappointing team in the country with their 31-17 loss to the unranked Florida State Seminoles.
Alabama will almost certainly be a considerable favorite in that matchup, but there could be one
personnel factor that will be beneficial for the Badgers. Crimson Tide starting running back Jam Miller injured his collarbone during a scrimmage before the season, and is expected to be out until the SEC opener, according to head coach Kalen DeBoer.
“He’s a leader for us, a quiet leader, but somebody the players all respect,” DeBoer said about Miller, via ESPN. “Having that bye week, I feel good that he will be back out there. He does so many things for us at that position.”
With that timeline, Miller should be ready for Week 5 for Alabama after their first bye week, but is expected to miss the contest against Wisconsin in Week 3.
Miller was effective in 2024, rushing for 668 yards and seven touchdowns as Alabama’s lead back. With him out and fellow running back Justice Haynes transferring to the Michigan Wolverines, the Crimson Tide is relying on Kevin Riley, Richard Young, and Daniel Hill at running back, who were all reserves behind the top duo in 2024.
One player won’t make or break any game, but Miller had nine rushes for 71 yards and a touchdown against Wisconsin last year and would’ve been a focal part of the offense if available.
