The Wisconsin Badgers are accustomed to putting the ball in the end zone by using their running game. As the team prepares for the upcoming season, there is a noticeable difference between this year and last, Wisconsin does not have an élite running back.
Since Melvin Gordon and Monte Ball have come and gone, 2015 is the first season in some time that the Badgers backfield looks incredibly average. No disrespect to junior Corey Clement, he did turn in almost 1,000 yards last season, while hardly seeing the field, due to Gordon’s high level of production. Clement rushed for 949 yards while scoring nine touchdowns. For most programs, having a second string running back turn in that type of performance would make most coaches happy. However, most college programs do not have a running back like Gordon ahead of a back like Clement going into the following season.
Wisconsin faces an uphill battle this season on many fronts, especially with running backs. The depth is certainly present for the Badgers, however, the production and high-octane rushing attack may not be. Wisconsin holds nine running backs on their roster going into this season. Take a minute to think about that, nine running backs. That is an incredible amount of players at one position, especially at running back.
Having the amount of depth and young talent that Wisconsin does, should make fans excited and optimistic, unfortunately the Badgers play in the Big 10, one of the hardest hitting and physical conference in all of college football. If the Badgers think their backs can just run around and do no wrong, there is a very large awakening coming their way soon.
The Badgers are experiencing a whole host of new changes, not only in the backfield but also at the head coaching position. Paul Chryst takes over for the Badgers and might decide to change the style the offense for Wisconsin. Maybe he is not as interested in bringing the running backs into the game like former Badgers coaches have been. The odds of that happening are not strong, but it is still something to consider.
Clement and the Badgers running backs must find ways to be more explosive and pose threats to opposing defenses this season. With no back on the roster being able to match the level of talent that either Ball or Gordon had, it could be a long and difficult season for the Midwest powerhouse.