Jon "JR" Rhoades 
It will be a scene much like the one you are looking at tonight when Wisconsin takes the field for the first time in 2024.
As Wisconsin gears up for its opening game against Western Michigan, fans and analysts alike are keen to see how the Badgers address the weaknesses that plagued them last season. While Wisconsin is heavily favored in this matchup, there are several areas where the team must show significant improvement to instill confidence in their ability to have a successful season. Here are the key areas Wisconsin needs to focus on against Western Michigan.
1. Revamping the Passing Game
Last season, Wisconsin’s transition to an air raid offense under head coach Luke Fickell was anything but smooth. The Badgers managed only 14 passing touchdowns, a stat that underscores the struggles they faced in fully adapting to the new system. The addition of SMU transfer Tanner Mordecai was expected to elevate the passing attack, but his average of just 6.6 yards per attempt highlighted a lack of explosiveness.
For the Badgers to succeed this season, quarterback Tyler Van Dyke must be able to stretch the field and connect on deep passes. Wisconsin’s receiving corps, led by Will Pauling and Bryson Green, needs to step up and create more opportunities downfield. If the Badgers can increase their yards per attempt closer to 8 yards, it would be a strong indication that the passing game is on the right track.
2. Strengthening the Offensive Line
The transition from a power-run offense to a more pass-heavy scheme has also placed additional pressure on Wisconsin’s offensive line. Last year, the line struggled to protect the quarterback, which contributed to the overall inefficiency of the passing game. The Badgers must improve their pass protection to allow Van Dyke the time needed to make plays downfield.
A successful game against Western Michigan will require the offensive line to demonstrate its ability to adapt to the demands of the air raid system while maintaining the physicality that has traditionally been a hallmark of Wisconsin football.
3. Reinvigorating the Defensive Line
Defensively, Wisconsin’s line was solid but not as productive as it needed to be last year. The Badgers managed only one defensive lineman with more than one sack throughout the season—James Thompson Jr. This lack of pass rush put extra pressure on the secondary and hindered the overall effectiveness of the defense.
Heading into the matchup with Western Michigan, the Badgers must show that their defensive line can generate more pressure. The emergence of players like Kurt Neal, who has been pegged as a potential breakout star, and the addition of transfer Brandon Lane will be crucial. A more dynamic pass rush will not only disrupt opposing offenses but also allow Wisconsin’s linebackers, traditionally a strong unit, to operate more freely.
4. Ensuring Depth at Running Back
Wisconsin has long been known for its strong running game, but there are some concerns heading into this season. While Chez Mellusi returns as the starting running back, his injury history raises questions about the depth behind him. The Badgers need to ensure that they have reliable backups who can step in if needed, especially given the physical demands of their offensive system.
A solid performance from the running back unit against Western Michigan would alleviate some of these concerns and help balance the offense, making the Badgers more difficult to defend.
5. Special Teams and Turnover Margin
Another area where Wisconsin must improve is special teams and turnover margin. Last season, the Badgers were inconsistent in these critical aspects of the game. Improving in these areas will be vital to winning close games and could make the difference between a good season and a great one.
Conclusion
The game against Western Michigan offers Wisconsin a prime opportunity to showcase the progress they’ve made in the offseason. By addressing these key areas of concern—revamping the passing game, strengthening the offensive and defensive lines, ensuring depth at running back, and tightening up special teams and turnover margin—the Badgers can set a positive tone for the rest of the season. Fans will be watching closely, hoping to see signs that this team is ready to contend in the Big Ten and beyond.
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