Wisconsin Badgers Starters Notably Struggle During 17-0 Opening Win Over Miami (OH)

After making the jump from Central Michigan, the talented in-state native was expected to immediately provide depth along the offense line. Heinzen has certainly done just that, but if the game against the RedHawks means anything then the lineman may need help moving forward. Another lineman who may need assistance is Emerson Mandell, a redshirt freshman who made his first career start, after recording a pass blocking grade of 59.4.

One game may not be enough for the Wisconsin Badgers to feel changes are necessary and in that case, the offensive line duo need to work to stop quick rushers. Heinzen struggled all night with outside linebacker Adam Trick, who was someone to watch on the RedHawks defense coming into the game. Trick recorded six tackles and two sacks with Heinzen being credited with allowing five pressures and two sacks.

If Wisconsin decides a change is needed, a potential option would be Joe Brunner who is currently the guard on the left side with Heinzen. Brunner is naturally used to playing on the left side and would pose a better athletic look at the tackle position. The only issue, however, is that Brunner shifting over might cause too many moving parts to be added as another guard option (likely Kerry Kodanko) would have to slide into his current role.

With that being said, Leyton Nelson is the first option that would make the most sense from a transitional point of view. Nelson is used to the position and is currently listed as the backup to Heinzen on the depth chart for the Wisconsin Badgers.

Competition Poses Potential Issue for Wisconsin Badgers O-Line, Davis Heinzen

Maybe Heinzen really is the ‘guy’ at the position without Kevin Heywood in the picture, but regardless, Wisconsin needs answers quickly. The Badgers play Middle Tennessee next week, who went 3-9 last season displaying one of the worst defenses in college football in the process. Middle Tennessee did not make any notable additions or serious personnel changes to indicate a better defense this season either.

Middle Tennessee is arguably the last potential game where Wisconsin can display some sort of dominance on offense with the schedule truly heating up. Alabama will be waiting patiently after the Middle Tennessee clash, and if Miami (OH) and Trick were able to have that kind of success against Heinzen then the Crimson Tide might run over the line.

Time is of the essence for the Wisconsin Badgers where the schedule will not ease up once the team is in the thick of the year. Following #8 Alabama, Wisconsin then faces Maryland, #14 Michigan, Iowa, #3 Ohio State, and #7 Oregon. The RedHawks were considered to have the weakest and most inexperienced rush on defense, which means the Badgers could be in serious danger with the schedule ahead.