The Wisconsin Badgers are taking on the Maryland Terrapins at Camp Randall Stadium this weekend, with kickoff slated for 11:00 a.m. on NBC.
The Badgers are coming off a 38-14 loss at the hands of the Alabama Crimson Tide, which was an ugly showing on both sides of the ball. But, they’ll need to bounce back quickly with conference play starting this weekend and a big opportunity ahead of them.
Here are our keys to the game for the Badgers on both sides of the ball.
Offensive improvement
Monitor Billy
Edwards Jr.’s knee status closely; if he plays, his familiarity with Maryland’s defense could be a big advantage. If Edwards is unavailable, Danny O’Neil must improve decision-making and reduce turnovers, as he threw two interceptions with multiple underthrown passes against Alabama.
Wisconsin’s offense must improve its efficiency, especially in the running game, which is currently averaging just 3.8 yards per carry. The offensive line has been a glaring problem and needs to provide better protection and create running lanes to sustain drives and control the clock. Wisconsin center Jake Renfro’s health is a big factor in the offensive line doing that.
Defense
Continue strong run defense to limit Maryland’s ground game and force true freshman quarterback Malik Washington to make plays under pressure. Wisconsin held Alabama to only 72 yards on 22 carries, which averages out to only 3.3 YPC.
If they are holding Alabama’s run game steady, there is no reason they can’t do the same with Maryland. Increase pass rush effectiveness to disrupt Washington’s rhythm and force turnovers. The offense being on the field longer will help keep the D-Line fresh through the majority of the game.
Focus on limiting big plays, as Maryland’s offense doesn’t have the players or athletes out wide that Alabama does. Stopping the run will be much more crucial against Maryland and the rest of conference play.
This is about as close to a must-win as you can get for the team in having hopes to qualify for a bowl game and for Luke Fickell himself. The Badgers must use this game as a confidence builder, as they have a daunting schedule ahead of them. Maryland hasn’t faced a Power 4 team yet this season like Wisconsin, so use that experience at Alabama, restructure, and win.
