Oct 12, 2024; Piscataway, New Jersey, USA; Wisconsin Badgers wide receiver Vinny Anthony II (8) catches the ball as Rutgers Scarlet Knights defensive back Bo Mascoe (3) tackles during the second half at SHI Stadium. Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

Wisconsin Badgers have Big Ten's best weapon against man coverage

Originally posted on Wisconsin Badgers on SI
By Lorin Cox | Last updated Jun 4, 2025 6:57 PM ET

Cover Vinny Anthony II one-on-one at your own risk.

The Wisconsin Badgers didn't have the most prolific passing attack in 2024, but their No. 1 wide receiver still found ways to produce at a high level.

According to Sports Info Solutions, Anthony produced the most yards per target against man coverage of any wide receiver in the Big Ten last season.

Yes, that includes Ohio State star freshman Jeremiah Smith, who finished second.

Most of the Big Ten's best weapons against man coverage return this fall. pic.twitter.com/3RV0eR2SGX
— CFB Film Room (@CFBFilmRoom) June 4, 2025

Anthony averaged more total yards per reception than Smith, too, but the Buckeyes' star dwarfed him in total catches, yards and touchdowns.

A lot of the junior receiver's production came on deep balls. According to PFF, 292 of his 672 receiving yards last season (43.5%) came on seven passes that traveled 20 or more yards in the air. Three of those went for touchdowns.

Anthony has the speed to pull away from defenders and make defenses pay for leaving him in single coverage.

Wisconsin is going to need more of that from "V8" to get the most out of Billy Edwards Jr. in Jeff Grimes' new offense this season.

Billy Edwards Jr. went to Vinny Anthony early and often at the Spring Showcase.#Badgers pic.twitter.com/MrfQmp9Xtg
— Andrew Bandstra (@andrewbandstra) April 19, 2025