Russell Wilson joining Wisconsin
This is Denny in again for Joe. Looks like Wisconsin has found the quarterback they needed to replace Scott Tolzien.
This is no doubt a big pickup for the Badgers, who will play against Michigan State at Spartan Stadium under the lights on ABC's Saturday Night Football on Oct. 22 (one of three Saturday Night Football appearances in a span of four weeks for Wisconsin). Wilson came in as a freshman at NC State and despite a career-low completion percentage, he threw for 17 touchdowns and only one interception. Since then, I believe he has been one of the more underrated quarterbacks in the ACC and the country. Wilson has thrown for 8,545 yards and 76 TDs in three seasons. He has been playing for Asheville in Class A of the minor leagues.
His three-year totals are impressive, but Wilson will enter a different scheme at Wisconsin. With as good as Wilson is, the run-first offense will present a challenge and may limit the things Wilson does well. James White and Montee Ball return to the Wisconsin the backfield and this will be a typical Badger offense that is spearheaded by the run. How much will they allow Wilson to show off his arm? The offense Wilson was in at NC State used several shotgun sets that allowed him to get out of the pocket with his feet and then make plays with his arm. Wilson is extremely elusive and can keep a play alive long enough when a play breaks down to let his receivers get open. How will he fare in an offense that has the quarterback primarily under center and in I-Formations? These will be some things to watch as the season goes along, but this addition is better than any other option Wisconsin had on their current roster at quarterback and may make the Badgers the favorite in the Leaders Division for 2011.
