The Wisconsin Badgers are finally back, as they’ll host the Miami (OH) Redhawks at Camp Randall Stadium for the season opener on Thursday, with kickoff slated for 8:00 p.m.
Coming into the game, Wisconsin is a healthy 17.5-point favorite, as they debut their new-look team that includes several changes on both sides of the ball.
Wisconsin released its depth chart earlier this week, which had a few surprises, especially with the second-stringers. So, it’ll be intriguing to see how Thursday plays out
and who ultimately stands out from the group.
Here are three Badgers who could seize the opportunity in Week 1.
CB Omillio Agard
The Badgers had to scramble at cornerback in the fall after learning that Nyzier Fourqurean would be ineligible to play, at least to start the season.
That led Miami transfer D’Yoni Hill and redshirt freshman Omillio Agard to rotate at the cornerback spot opposite Ricardo Hallman. Now, both are listed as co-starters on the depth chart, although Hill is expected to take the first snaps on Thursday evening.
Regardless, it’s a big opportunity for both of them, and especially Agard, who hasn’t seen this type of opportunity yet in his younger career.
We can also loop in true freshmen Cairo Skanes and Jaimier Scott, who could be counted upon for depth behind the top trio. Both freshmen were listed on the Week 1 two-deep.
QB Billy Edwards
This is an obvious one, but Billy Edwards has a big chance to make a first impression on Badgers fans on Thursday.
He won’t be tasked to be the superhero or anything, but Edwards will need to play clean football, make quality decisions, and be accurate on his throws. With his talent, consistency is more important than anything this season, and Week 1 is a great opportunity to make his mark and execute his role.
There should be big-play opportunities, but Edwards will also need to take what’s given to him and show up when he’s needed to.
WR Eugene Hilton
There has been quite a bit of hype around true freshman wide receiver Eugene Hilton entering the season after a strong fall camp. Now, it’s time to see that in action in Week 1.
Hilton was listed on the two-deep to start the year and has drawn rave reviews from coaches, with offensive coordinator Jeff Grimes saying he’ll ‘definitely’ have a role as a freshman.
He should see the field at some point on Thursday and has a great chance to make a first impression as he continues to climb up the depth chart at wide receiver.
