The Wisconsin Badgers have burst out of the gates to begin the 2019 season. Outscoring both South Florida and Central Michigan by a combined 110 points has fans re-evaluating pre-season expectations. Needless to say, Bucky looks much more like the playoff-contending 2017 version than the 2018 team that stumbled through the season. However, is it too early to determine how good this season could be? Or is Wisconsin on the verge of another hallmark season? This piece will take a look at why you should buy or sell Wisconsin football on the early high-level performances.
Reasons to Buy Wisconsin Football in 2019
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Multidimensional Attack
Jonathon Taylor is the focal point of this offense. Make no mistake about it. With eight touchdowns through the first two games, the junior is off to an emphatic start for his Heisman campaign. With that being said, this might be the most balanced attack Bucky has showcased since the 2011 Russell Wilson offense. Jack Coan has looked every bit as good as advertised during camp. And, partner that up with the return of Quintez Cephus to an already talented wide receiving corps, and you have a recipe for a dynamic offense. This is not the Wisconsin offense you are accustomed to seeing. There are play-makers all over the field, helped by a dominant offensive line. This offense looks good, but tests are coming. From what we’ve seen so far though, this offense looks like it is here to stay for 2019.
2. Strong Against the Run
Staples in the Badger defense for the last decade has been a strong rush defense. After struggling for all of last season to contain the run, it appears that Wisconsin can again count on a stringent front seven. Bucky has dominated in the trenches in its first two games and will need to do so moving forward as the young secondary continues to develop.
3. Team Chemistry
Never underestimate the value of liking who you play with. Last season, the Badgers for whatever reason didn’t seem to have ‘fun’ playing the game. This group looks entirely different. From the “life up” touchdown celebrations to the overall feel on the sidelines, this team is having FUN. Winning makes having fun a lot easier, but this team looks to have contagious chemistry that may pay dividends down the road.
Reasons to Sell
1. Special Teams’
One of the few areas that this Wisconsin football team still needs to address is a very important one. Field goal kicker. Gone is long-time kicker Rafael Gaglianone, and left to fill his role is sophomore Collin Larsh. Larsh hasn’t missed an extra point, but he is just 1/3 on field goals, including a miss from short range. The schedule is very unforgiving this season starting this week vs Michigan, and Wisconsin will likely be in many close games. College kickers, unfortunately, are a thing, and it looks as if Bucky may be in for a wild ride in the kicking game.
2. Inexperience on Defense
While the defense has been stout early, the competition has not been. The secondary in particular is loaded with underclassmen. This may bode well for the future as they are young and talented, but expect growing pains to still happen against better opponents. Conference play begins on Saturday, so only time will tell.
Verdict
Buy. This Wisconsin football team is loaded with talent and motivation. The likes of Taylor, Coan, and Cephus, to go with dominant offensive line play give Bucky an offense that is capable of beating opponents in multiple ways. Couple that with what appears to be the return of a stout Badger defense, and you have a team that can legitimately challenge for the Big Ten crown. This team has all the makings for achieving a very special season in Madison. Only time will tell.
