One week down, one award for the Wisconsin Badgers. Specifically, safety Preston Zachman, who was named the Big Ten Defensive Player of the Week on Monday after recording two interceptions against the Miami (OH) RedHawks last Thursday.
Zachman, a senior, returned for one last season of college football and was set to be one of the key pieces on the team in 2025. He returned with Austin Brown to form a strong safety duo for the 2025 season, and started off the season strong with his two-interception
performance on Thursday.
Zachman nearly returned his first interception for a touchdown, picking off Miami (OH) quarterback Daequan Finn deep in RedHawks territory. The Badgers eventually punched the drive in for a touchdown with a Danny O’Neil quarterback sneak.
His second interception, however, may have been more impressive, as the safety had a great read on the ball, breaking hard and making a diving catch to rob Miami (OH) of a potential explosive.
Thursday was Zachman’s seventh interception of his career, as the safety had picked up two in each of the last two seasons.
Overall, there was an increased level of aggressiveness from Wisconsin’s defense, which led to negative plays, limited explosives, and Zachman’s turnovers.
“I think that just shows confidence playing it, just letting it loose and flying around,” Zachman said about the difference from 2024. “We had a lot of guys rally into the football, and you kind of know that you can just be aggressive and take your shot knowing that your brother’s right there next to you. They’re rallying with the football.”
Now, the Badgers will look to continue the effort next week when they face the Middle Tennessee State Blue Raiders at home in their second non-conference game of the season.
