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The Wisconsin Badgers practiced once Tuesday, and while there might've been less "news" than the weekend's scrimmage and subsequent practice, there are nonetheless important observations to be made. Quarterbacks Joel Stave and Tanner McEvoy seemed to be the central focus of the day, as both continue to seem neck-and-neck for the starting job.
Both quarterbacks looked good today at practice, FWIW. Joel Stave completed 4 of 4 passes in 11-on-11 drills. Tanner McEvoy 4-5. #Badgers
— Jesse Temple (@jessetemple) August 12, 2014
Both Tanner McEvoy and Joel Stave had great days, completed most their passes. McEvoy had a 50-yard TD to Krenwick Sanders. #badgers
— Evan Flood (@Evan_Flood) August 12, 2014
At this point, it's fair to wonder what the margin for error is for Stave and McEvoy. Sure, it's still relatively early in fall camp. But with the battle so close -- nobody seems comfortable declaring a frontrunner, though maybe Stave would be if we had to -- the coaching staff might not be willing to put up with poor practices. Fortunately, that doesn't seem to be an issue at this juncture.
Speaking of Sanders, Fox Sports Wisconsin's Jesse Temple has a nice look at the young receivers who are making the unit look just fine thus far in camp.
I asked Joel Stave if he felt OK running some option: "Would I call it my bread and butter? No. But I feel like that’s something I can do."
— Jesse Temple (@jessetemple) August 12, 2014
Stave added all he needs is for a D-end to smack him, and he can pitch it to Melvin. Only takes 3 or 4 steps. Like his confidence. #Badgers
— Jesse Temple (@jessetemple) August 12, 2014
McEvoy on running the option: "To get Melvin Gordon or Corey Clement in the open field will cause headaches for defenses to defend" #Badgers
— Benjamin Worgull (@TheBadgerNation) August 12, 2014
Now this is where things get interesting. One common thread to emerge from Sunday's scrimmage that with both quarterbacks looking good and also contributing different skill sets, a two-quarterback system could be utilized with frequency. The most likely setup would be Stave as the No. 1 quarterback and McEvoy owning various packages, such as option or designed-run plays.
But what if Stave can run the option adequately himself? I imagine both people would scoff at that notion, especially after recalling something like this. But any advantage in a tight position battle like this is important. Especially, you know, if Melvin Gordon or Corey Clement is out there on the receiving end of the pitch.
Just some quick thoughts on Wisconsin's most visible position battle. The Badgers return to practice today with two sessions; expect to hear from defensive players and Gary Andersen later in the afternoon. We'll have all the updates right here on B5Q.