Bucky's 5th Quarter - Wisconsin Badgers fall camp: Dramatic offseason draws to a closeWelcome to the unofficial online tavern of the Wisconsin Badgers. Please seat yourself.https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/47803/buckys-fave.png2013-08-24T00:24:02-05:00http://www.buckys5thquarter.com/rss/stream/43463032013-08-24T00:24:02-05:002013-08-24T00:24:02-05:00Coach Andersen nails a belly flop!<h3 class="link-title"><a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.lostlettermen.com/uws-gary-andersen-nails-belly-flop/">Coach Andersen nails a belly&nbsp;flop!</a></h3>
<div class="description"><p><p>As if we needed more confirmation that Gary Andersen isn't Bret Bielema...There's this...</p></p></div>
https://www.buckys5thquarter.com/2013/8/24/4653400/coach-andersen-nails-a-belly-flopBrewGuyTim2013-08-23T13:29:31-05:002013-08-23T13:29:31-05:00Notebook: Andersen likes Badgers' depth at OL
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<figcaption>Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE</figcaption>
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<p>With the Badgers' offensive line beginning to get healthier, Andersen wants one or two non-starters to rotate during games.</p> <p>MADISON -- Despite the presence of an offensive line without much game experience, Wisconsin head coach Gary Andersen seems fairly optimistic about the group heading into next week's season-opener against UMass.</p>
<p>Andersen believes the <a target="_blank" href="http://www.buckys5thquarter.com/wisconsin-badgers-football/2013/8/14/4621230/dan-voltz-injury-hamstring-dallas-lewallen">hamstring injury</a> to center <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/160213/dan-voltz" class="sbn-auto-link">Dan Voltz</a> allowed the line to create more depth during fall camp. Now it's just about getting and staying healthy.</p>
<p>"I feel like we've got eight pretty good players. That's a great thing," Andersen said. "Dan getting hurt forced us to move the pieces of the puzzle around, and I felt like they reacted in a positive way, which is great to see. It's still critical, critical, critical that we stay healthy there.</p>
<p>"There are some good combinations and a couple young men that have shown a lot of toughness through a lot of reps throughout camp. Not as many game-tested guys as you'd like to see. However, camp-tested, spring-ball tested, offseason tested, yes, and they've passed those tests very well."</p>
<p>Andersen said he expects Voltz to be back full-speed by Tuesday and guard <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/114185/kyle-costigan" class="sbn-auto-link">Kyle Costigan</a> to also return next week.</p>
<p>Andersen hopes the Badgers end up playing six or seven offensive linemen per game, as opposed to the customary procedure of keeping the starting five in for every play.</p>
<p>"What's going to be nice -- and hopefully it goes this way -- is that there is somebody that can rotate or two kids that can rotate, can take a series, that can take every second or third series," said Andersen, who played center in college. "Offensive linemen need to play as a group. I was one of those guys at one time, and you're very prideful about your crew and your group, but there's no reason why that group can't be six or seven also. It doesn't just have to be five."</p>
<h4>Defensive front to rotate often</h4>
<p>Don't expect the starting front seven to be clear once Wisconsin releases a depth chart.</p>
<p>Andersen said Friday to expect a lot of "or's" among front-seven players on the team's first depth chart, meaning the competition at that particular position is still ongoing.</p>
<p>"That's the way it is," Andersen said. "We're not going to have just a straight starting 11, especially in the front seven. There are going to be a lot of young men that are going to be rotating and playing a lot. They deserve that opportunity, and that is a great thing for us because now we can expect them and they can expect themselves to play at a high level for four quarters."</p>
<h4>Senior captains</h4>
<p>Andersen said every senior on the roster will have an opportunity to be a game-day captain for the Badgers this season.</p>
<p>It's a tradition the coach said he started at Utah State two years ago.</p>
<p>"It doesn't matter if you've been in the program for one year or you've been in the program for five years, whether you're a walk-on or a starter, it doesn't matter," Andersen said. "Every senior will walk out -- four strong, maybe five strong -- until we get all the way through the seniors this year."</p>
<h4>Quick hits:</h4>
<ul>
<li>Andersen said he expects between 4-6 true freshmen to play this season.</li>
<li>Andersen said there is no timetable for the return of freshman offensive lineman Matt Miller (concussion), and he doesn't foresee it being any time in the near future.</li>
<li>Andersen on the kicker competition: "It's a two-man race and remains a two-man race. I'm excited where they're at, but it's still a little confusing, for sure, to say the least."</li>
<li>Andersen on Wisconsin's <a target="_blank" href="http://www.buckys5thquarter.com/wisconsin-badgers-football/2013/8/22/4647254/wisconsin-alternate-helmet-tennessee-tech">red alternate helmets</a>, which the team will wear Sept. 7 against Tennessee Tech: "I think it still carries the great tradition of Wisconsin football with it, but it does put us a little bit on the cutting edge."</li>
</ul>
<h4>More from Bucky's 5th Quarter:</h4>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.buckys5thquarter.com/2013/8/23/4650774/wisconsin-basketball-ottawa-canada-exhibition-results?utm_source=buckys5thquarter&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Badger Bits: Wisconsin rebounds vs. Ottawa University</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.buckys5thquarter.com/2013/8/23/4648056/gary-andersen-wisconsin-first-year-big-ten-head-coaches?utm_source=buckys5thquarter&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">First-year Big Ten head coaches and what to expect from Gary Andersen</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.buckys5thquarter.com/wisconsin-badgers-football/2013/8/22/4648100/wisconsin-wide-receivers-jared-abbrederis-kenzel-doe?utm_source=buckys5thquarter&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Wisconsin wide receivers looking to become deeper, more versatile</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.buckys5thquarter.com/wisconsin-badgers-football/2013/8/22/4647154/wisconsin-schedule-best-home-away-games-ohio-state-arizona-state?utm_source=buckys5thquarter&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Wisconsin schedule pick 'em: 1 home game, 1 road game</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.buckys5thquarter.com/wisconsin-badgers-football/2013/8/22/4647254/wisconsin-alternate-helmet-tennessee-tech?utm_source=buckys5thquarter&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Wisconsin wearing alternate helmet vs. Tennessee Tech</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.buckys5thquarter.com/wisconsin-hockey-recruiting/2013/8/21/4498132/wisconsin-hockey-recruiting-class-2014?utm_source=buckys5thquarter&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Wisconsin hockey recruiting: Badgers' 2014 forward class has red flags after Dvorak decommitment </a></li>
</ul>
https://www.buckys5thquarter.com/wisconsin-badgers-football/2013/8/23/4651796/wisconsin-offensive-line-depth-dan-voltz-kyle-costigan-ryan-groyJason Galloway2013-08-22T13:12:20-05:002013-08-22T13:12:20-05:00Wisconsin receivers growing confident, deeper
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<figcaption>Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE</figcaption>
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<p>Wisconsin fans don't have to worry about what they'll get out of Jared Abbrederis, one of the Big Ten's best receivers. But what about the rest of the group? They're ready to erase the question mark beside their names -- including Tanner McEvoy.</p> <p>MADISON -- Statistically, Wisconsin's receiving corps looks like nothing more than a one-man show. <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/77770/jared-abbrederis" class="sbn-auto-link">Jared Abbrederis</a> caught more passes for more yards and more touchdowns last year than the combined totals of every other receiver on the Badgers' 2013 roster.</p>
<p>After an offseason of coaching changes, extra reps and competition at the position, everyone below the program's eighth-leading all-time receiver on the depth chart has hope that it won't be the same this season.</p>
<p>"I feel like the coaches are starting to get that confidence where it doesn't matter who's out there, you feel confident that they can go out there and do it," junior <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/132127/kenzel-doe" class="sbn-auto-link">Kenzel Doe</a> said. "We've been out there competing each and every day.</p>
<p>"I'm definitely ready. I feel like my junior year I've got to definitely step up more and take a better role. I'm ready as can be, and I hope the coaches can trust me to go out there and do it."</p>
<p>Doe has the mindset of many Wisconsin receivers looking to breakout this season. He's competing with sophomore Jordan Fredrick for the other starting spot beside Abbrederis, and senior <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/77771/jeff-duckworth" class="sbn-auto-link">Jeff Duckworth</a>, redshirt freshman <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/160203/alex-erickson" class="sbn-auto-link">Alex Erickson</a>, sophomore <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/160196/reggie-love" class="sbn-auto-link">Reggie Love</a> and true freshman Robert Wheelwright are also looking to prove they deserve ample playing time.</p>
<div class="read-more">
<strong>More</strong>: <a target="new" href="http://www.buckys5thquarter.com/pages/badgers-projected-depth-chart">Projected depth chart</a> <a target="new" href="http://www.buckys5thquarter.com/wisconsin-badgers-football/2013/8/21/4644504/wisconsin-practice-report-joel-stave-first-team-reps-quarterback-tanner-mcevoy-wide-receiver/in/4346303">McEvoy moves to WR</a>
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<p>Despite the lack of production last year, the group has shown some promise during fall camp, and Erickson and Wheelwright are just more than a week away from having their first chance to prove themselves during game action.</p>
<p>Also, with so many bodies competing for a chance to contribute, there hasn't been time to delay any development.</p>
<p>"You really can't take plays off, days off," said Fredrick, the team's second-leading returning receiver after catching 17 passes for 196 yards and one touchdown last year. "It's not one of those things where you're a superstar and no matter what you do, you're probably going to keep your job. So every day matters, and every play. It gets you better."</p>
<p>Then there's <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/138020/tanner-mcevoy" class="sbn-auto-link">Tanner McEvoy</a>. A week removed from competing for the Badgers' starting quarterback position, the 6-foot-6, 223-pound target has spent the last two days impressing his colleagues at wideout.</p>
<p>During red zone skelly drills Wednesday, McEvoy -- who played receiver in high school -- hauled in a tough touchdown grab over one-on-one coverage on a fade route, showing flashes of a potential mismatch Wisconsin could use around the goal line this season. After all, Abbrederis began his career with the Badgers as a walk-on quarterback.</p>
<p>"(McEvoy) made a great catch yesterday, and made a great release, too, which you don't usually see naturally," Fredrick said. "He's a great athlete, so he was showing something different (Wednesday). He's just got to learn the position now, obviously. He's going to be a great receiver."</p>
<p>Wisconsin's wide receiver depth chart doesn't appear to lack potential, but the Badgers' coaching staff needs more than potential from that position when it comes time to win games in the Big Ten.</p>
<p>With new head coach Gary Andersen and offensive coordinator Andy Ludwig implementing more of a spread-style attack, they'll need more than just Abbrederis making plays in the passing game.</p>
<p>"When you're going with a lot of different personnel, with a lot of different wideouts, you're going to want different guys that can show different things, where teams have to get ready for more than just one guy or more than just two guys," Fredrick said.</p>
<p>"So it's big if more than just the starting three or starting two show up and make plays. We need multiple guys who can (produce) out there every day."</p>
<h4>More from Bucky's 5th Quarter:</h4>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.buckys5thquarter.com/wisconsin-badgers-football/2013/8/22/4647254/wisconsin-alternate-helmet-tennessee-tech?utm_source=buckys5thquarter&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Wisconsin wearing alternate helmet vs. Tennessee Tech</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.buckys5thquarter.com/2013/8/22/4646346/carleton-controls-wisconsin-in-exhibition-tour-opener?utm_source=buckys5thquarter&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Carleton controls Wisconsin in exhibition tour opener</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.buckys5thquarter.com/wisconsin-hockey-recruiting/2013/8/21/4498132/wisconsin-hockey-recruiting-class-2014?utm_source=buckys5thquarter&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Wisconsin hockey recruiting: Badgers' 2014 forward class has red flags after Dvorak decommitment </a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.buckys5thquarter.com/wisconsin-badgers-football/2013/8/21/4644504/wisconsin-practice-report-joel-stave-first-team-reps-quarterback-tanner-mcevoy-wide-receiver?utm_source=buckys5thquarter&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Wisconsin practice report: Joel Stave takes 1st-team reps, Tanner McEvoy plays wide receiver</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.buckys5thquarter.com/2013/8/21/4639124/badgers-canada-summer-trip-part-3-josh-gasser-healthy?utm_source=buckys5thquarter&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">What to Watch in Canada, Part III: Josh Gasser's health</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.buckys5thquarter.com/wisconsin-badgers-football/2013/8/20/4642010/wisconsin-practice-report-joel-stave-curt-phillips-jeff-lewis-running-back?utm_source=buckys5thquarter&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Wisconsin practice report: Joel Stave, Curt Phillips still battling; Jeff Lewis back at running back</a></li>
</ul>
https://www.buckys5thquarter.com/wisconsin-badgers-football/2013/8/22/4648100/wisconsin-wide-receivers-jared-abbrederis-kenzel-doeJason Galloway2013-08-21T12:58:13-05:002013-08-21T12:58:13-05:00Aug. 21 practice report: Stave takes 1st-team reps
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<figcaption>Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE</figcaption>
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<p>The Badgers have yet to decide on a starting quarterback, but does sophomore Joel Stave have the edge after leading the first team during the two-minute drill Wednesday morning?</p> <p>At the end of Wisconsin's morning practice Wednesday, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/132124/joel-stave" class="sbn-auto-link">Joel Stave</a> was under center for the two-minute drill session, while <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/38635/curt-phillips" class="sbn-auto-link">Curt Phillips</a> led the second team.</p>
<p>This certainly doesn't mean the competition is over, but it was the only indication of a preference between the two throughout the last couple practices, where the two have repeatedly split first-team reps.</p>
<p>Both were rather impressive during the morning media viewing period. Stave was 7-for-7 during the two-minute drill (although only one was completed more than five yards downfield), while Phillips was 5-for-7.</p>
<p>Offensive coordinator Andy Ludwig said the team still hasn't decided between Stave and Phillips, but he gave some criteria he's looking for in a starting quarterback after the first of two practices today.</p>
<p>"Who consistently moves the football team, who has repetitive accuracy, who can get us out of tough situations?" he said.</p>
<p>As for other quarterback news, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/138020/tanner-mcevoy" class="sbn-auto-link">Tanner McEvoy</a> was not taking snaps under center because of a minor wrist injury he suffered during Monday's scrimmage. He did run routes at wide receiver, though, where he had a very nice touchdown catch on a fade route from Stave during red zone skelly drills.</p>
<p>Also, Ludwig said that <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/160194/bart-houston" class="sbn-auto-link">Bart Houston</a> shouldn't be counted out for the No. 3 spot on the depth chart ahead of McEvoy.</p>
<h4>Notes and observations:</h4>
<p>-- Defensive coordinator Dave Aranda said the Badgers' defense has begun to prepare for the spread offense this week. The unit saw Arizona State plays Tuesday, TCU plays today and will be seeing some UMass looks Thursday.</p>
<p>"We're moving into spread, so all the tight ends we've been seeing are kind of going away and being replaced with receivers," Aranda said. "It's a little bit of a different approach by us, but the guys have taken to it. It's what they're used to. I think it's what the Big Ten has become."</p>
<p>-- Wisconsin spent two practice periods (10 minutes) working on wide receiver screens. By the way, that <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/77770/jared-abbrederis" class="sbn-auto-link">Jared Abbrederis</a> guy has really good hands.</p>
<p>-- Stave threw a nice thread-the-needle touchdown pass to tight end <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/135218/sam-arneson" class="sbn-auto-link">Sam Arneson</a> during red zone skelly drills. The Badgers seemed to use the tight end a lot in the red zone.</p>
<p>-- The offense ran one play where a receiver went in motion and took a direct snap while on the move. They also tried a couple reverse handoffs to <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/132127/kenzel-doe" class="sbn-auto-link">Kenzel Doe</a> that seemed to work fairly well.</p>
<p>-- Doe was shaken up and limped off the field at the end of the Badgers' two-minute drill session that ended practice, but it didn't appear to be anything serious.</p>
<p>-- Center Dan Voltz (sore hamstring) again did not participate in drills. The first-team offensive line during 11-on-11 drills, from left to right, was <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/135219/tyler-marz" class="sbn-auto-link">Tyler Marz</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/77794/ryan-groy" class="sbn-auto-link">Ryan Groy</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/114193/dallas-lewallen" class="sbn-auto-link">Dallas Lewallen</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/77793/zac-matthias" class="sbn-auto-link">Zac Matthias</a> and <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/114195/rob-havenstein" class="sbn-auto-link">Rob Havenstein</a>.</p>
<p>--<a href="https://twitter.com/jaypo1961/status/370236726024740864" target="_blank"> The Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel's Jeff Potrykus</a> is reporting that kicker <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/160189/jack-russell" class="sbn-auto-link">Jack Russell</a> -- who has been competing with <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/114199/kyle-french" class="sbn-auto-link">Kyle French</a> for the starting job -- has a right leg injury that will keep him out for a while.</p>
<p>-- It was made official today that Wisconsin will open the 2014 season against LSU in Houston.</p>
<h4>More from Bucky's 5th Quarter:</h4>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.buckys5thquarter.com/2013/8/21/4639124/badgers-canada-summer-trip-part-3-josh-gasser-healthy?utm_source=buckys5thquarter&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">What to Watch in Canada, Part III: Josh Gasser's health</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.buckys5thquarter.com/wisconsin-badgers-football/2013/8/20/4642010/wisconsin-practice-report-joel-stave-curt-phillips-jeff-lewis-running-back?utm_source=buckys5thquarter&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Wisconsin practice report: Joel Stave, Curt Phillips still battling; Jeff Lewis back at running back</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.buckys5thquarter.com/2013/8/20/4621304/badgers-canada-summer-trip-part-2-nigel-hayes-emergence-freshmen?utm_source=buckys5thquarter&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">What to Watch in Canada, Part II: Emergence of freshmen</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.buckys5thquarter.com/2013/8/20/4639712/gary-andersen-barry-alvarez-media-practices-policy?utm_source=buckys5thquarter&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Badger Bits: Gary Andersen embraces the media</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.buckys5thquarter.com/kielbasa-kings-sports-extravaganza-podcast/2013/8/20/4639606/kielbasa-kings-podcast-wisconsin-scrimmage-recap-green-bay-packers-preseason?utm_source=buckys5thquarter&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">KKSE Episode 7: Wisconsin scrimmage recap, Wes Hodkiewicz on Packers</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.buckys5thquarter.com/wisconsin-badgers-football/2013/8/20/4639158/jake-keefer-wisconsin-defensive-end-season-over-w-injury?utm_source=buckys5thquarter&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Jake Keefer, Wisconsin defensive end, out for season w/ knee injury</a></li>
</ul>
https://www.buckys5thquarter.com/wisconsin-badgers-football/2013/8/21/4644504/wisconsin-practice-report-joel-stave-first-team-reps-quarterback-tanner-mcevoy-wide-receiverJason Galloway2013-08-20T18:58:13-05:002013-08-20T18:58:13-05:00Aug. 20 practice report: QBs still battling
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<figcaption>Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Just 11 days from the season opener, Wisconsin has yet to name a starting quarterback. There aren't many more reps to go around before game week, and Joel Stave and Curt Phillips still appear just as likely as the other to start against UMass.</p> <p>It appears <a href="http://www.buckys5thquarter.com/wisconsin-badgers-football/2013/8/19/4638240/wisconsin-scrimmage-recap-curt-phillips-joel-stave-alex-erickson-james-white-leon-jacobs/in/4346303" target="_blank">Monday's scrimmage</a> still wasn't enough to decide Wisconsin's quarterback battle, as <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/132124/joel-stave">Joel Stave</a> and <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/38635/curt-phillips">Curt Phillips</a> shared first-team reps again during Tuesday afternoon's media viewing period.</p>
<p>Phillips took the first rep during 7-on-7 and 11-on-11 drills Tuesday, but it's difficult to read too much into that. <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/138020/tanner-mcevoy">Tanner McEvoy</a> -- who received some first-team work Friday -- wasn't part of the Phillips/Stave grouping at any point during Tuesday's viewing period. With less than two weeks before the season opener, one would think a decision would be on the horizon.</p>
<h4>Injury news:</h4>
<p>-- Center Dan Voltz (sore hamstring) was in pads Tuesday but did not participate in any drills during the 50-minute media viewing period.</p>
<p>-- Outside linebacker <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/77779/ethan-armstrong">Ethan Armstrong</a> was on the field again after returning to practice Monday. He called his injury, sustained during the first week of fall camp -- a "little knee issue" that the team wanted to be cautious with.</p>
<p>-- According to <a href="https://twitter.com/Evan_Flood/status/369939298503495682" target="_blank">247sports.com's Evan Flood</a>, freshman offensive lineman Jackson Keeler was carted off the field during Tuesday's practice with what he said looked like a leg or ankle injury.</p>
<h4><b>Notes and observations:</b></h4>
<p>-- Jeff Lewis, who the Badgers were experimenting with at safety, was back at running back.</p>
<p>-- With Voltz out again, left guard <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/114193/dallas-lewallen">Dallas Lewallen</a> moved over to center during 11-on-11 drills, <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/77794/ryan-groy">Ryan Groy</a> played left guard and <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/135219/tyler-marz">Tyler Marz</a> came in at left tackle.</p>
<p>-- Armstrong spoke on the Badgers' defensive potential after practice, noting the system has proven it can produce a top unit -- head coach Gary Andersen and co. ranked 14th nationally in total defense last season at Utah State. If everyone buys in, Armstrong said, Wisconsin could find itself among the top defenses in the country this year.</p>
<p>"If we play well and play with great effort, I know we can be a top defense in the country," Armstrong said. "It's totally on us. We have to go out and we have to prove it every single game."</p>
<p>-- Wide receiver Jordan Fredrick was back returning punts with running back James White and fellow receiver <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/77770/jared-abbrederis">Jared Abbrederis</a>.</p>
<p>-- The offensive line struggled at times in pass protection during 11-on-11 drills. It led to more inaccurate throws from both Phillips and Stave than during the 7-on-7 period, when both looked very sharp.</p>
<p>-- <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/135214/michael-caputo">Michael Caputo</a> was again taking first-team reps over freshman <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/160202/leo-musso">Leo Musso</a> at free safety alongside Dezmen Southward. He said after practice that the competition was friendly and that everyone at safety has aspects they need to improve on.</p>
<p>-- Wisconsin ran a few five-wide plays during 11-on-11 drills with White or <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/135206/melvin-gordon">Melvin Gordon</a> split out in the slot. It will be interesting to see how much the Badgers will want to use their running backs to bolster the passing attack this season.</p>
<h4>More from Bucky's 5th Quarter:</h4>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.buckys5thquarter.com/2013/8/20/4621304/badgers-canada-summer-trip-part-2-nigel-hayes-emergence-freshmen?utm_source=buckys5thquarter&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">What to Watch in Canada, Part II: Emergence of freshmen</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.buckys5thquarter.com/2013/8/20/4639712/gary-andersen-barry-alvarez-media-practices-policy?utm_source=buckys5thquarter&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Badger Bits: Gary Andersen embraces the media</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.buckys5thquarter.com/kielbasa-kings-sports-extravaganza-podcast/2013/8/20/4639606/kielbasa-kings-podcast-wisconsin-scrimmage-recap-green-bay-packers-preseason?utm_source=buckys5thquarter&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">KKSE Episode 7: Wisconsin scrimmage recap, Wes Hodkiewicz on Packers</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.buckys5thquarter.com/wisconsin-badgers-football/2013/8/20/4639158/jake-keefer-wisconsin-defensive-end-season-over-w-injury?utm_source=buckys5thquarter&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Jake Keefer, Wisconsin defensive end, out for season w/ knee injury</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.buckys5thquarter.com/wisconsin-badgers-football/2013/8/19/4638240/wisconsin-scrimmage-recap-curt-phillips-joel-stave-alex-erickson-james-white-leon-jacobs?utm_source=buckys5thquarter&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Wisconsin scrimmage recap: 1st units, pair of freshmen impress</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.buckys5thquarter.com/2013/8/19/4636232/badgers-canada-summer-trip-part-1-frank-kaminsky-rebounding?utm_source=buckys5thquarter&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">What to Watch in Canada, Part I: Frank Kaminsky's rebounding</a></li>
</ul>
https://www.buckys5thquarter.com/wisconsin-badgers-football/2013/8/20/4642010/wisconsin-practice-report-joel-stave-curt-phillips-jeff-lewis-running-backJason Galloway2013-08-20T08:13:30-05:002013-08-20T08:13:30-05:00Gary Andersen embraces the media
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<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/eokbzU5DH_DQkIjlE_-W1Yuw62c=/0x0:4000x2667/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/18146765/20120724_jel_sl8_176.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>What a guy. Andersen has seemingly embraced the media by opening up an above-average number of practices and scrimmages. Shockingly, Barry Alvarez isn't as fond of the idea.</p> <p><a href="http://host.madison.com/sports/college/football/andy-baggot-media-access-marks-huge-difference-in-gary-andersen/article_7d28f609-a406-5bf8-975e-f7515c16b00a.html">Andy Baggot: Media access marks huge difference in Gary Andersen era | The Wisconsin State Journal</a></p>
<p>In today's episode of <i>Gary Andersen: Man of the People</i>, we learn that there really is something behind Andersen's opening of practices and scrimmages to the public, and most notably for this story, the media. He believes the openness fosters a sense of community around the program:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>Alvarez said he never made his views known to Andersen, who clearly has a different take. He opened practices at Utah State to the fans in part because he wanted a sense of community. Media coverage helped cultivate that feeling.</p>
<p>"I'm not that paranoid," Andersen said.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>Indeed, and that's nice to hear. Andersen also tentatively plans to open a portion of in-season Tuesday practices to the media.</p>
<p>There's really no issue here, as Alvarez even said he's not going to encroach on something that falls under Andersen's preview. This story is, nevertheless, an interesting take on coverage in the new media era, or whatever we're calling this.</p>
<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.usatoday.com%2Fstory%2Fsports%2Fncaaf%2Fbigten%2F2013%2F08%2F19%2Fwolken-across-america-stop-7-wisconsin-badgers%2F2675097%2F&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.buckys5thquarter.com%2F2013%2F8%2F20%2F4639712%2Fgary-andersen-barry-alvarez-media-practices-policy" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Wolken Across America Stop 7: Wisconsin | USA Today</a></p>
<p>This is a great national preview/take on the Badgers' upcoming season. While it touches on an issue I personally thought was behind us -- the assistant pay "disparity" Bret Bielema cited as a reason for his jumping ship -- I thought it was nice to step back from our local, day-to-day-coverage and see what the rest of the country recognizes in Wisconsin.</p>
<p>Here's the choice quote, but do yourself a favor, too, because the story's not just on this issue and <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/77770/jared-abbrederis">Jared Abbrederis</a>, Andersen himself and Alvarez share some other interesting quotes as well.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>"I've got to tell you," said athletics director and longtime Wisconsin coach Barry Alvarez, who groomed Bielema to be his replacement, "and I'm not saying this negatively because Bret did a good job for us, but I haven't had one person say, 'Well, it's too bad Bret left' or 'We were sorry to see Bret leave' or 'Couldn't you have paid the assistants more money to keep him?' Not one."</p>
</blockquote>
<p><a href="http://host.madison.com/sports/college/football/badgers-football-notes-gary-andersen-stresses-desire-to-get-tanner/article_693120c9-428b-5530-9712-72ce626c047a.html" target="_blank">Badgers football notes: Gary Andersen stresses desire to get Tanner McEvoy on field | Wisconsin State Journal</a></p>
<p>Jake covered this fully in his <a href="http://www.buckys5thquarter.com/wisconsin-badgers-football/2013/8/19/4638240/wisconsin-scrimmage-recap-curt-phillips-joel-stave-alex-erickson-james-white-leon-jacobs" target="_blank">scrimmage recap from last night</a>, but it appears McEvoy will have to find his way on to the field through our routes than quarterback. Perhaps he'll have special packages drawn up for him -- not a terrible longshot -- though it's more likely he'll get some reps at wide receiver.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>"Another man you look at and say, where is Tanner going to fit in this whole piece?" Andersen said. "Tanner's a great athlete. He'll fit somewhere on the offense at some point as far as being involved, maybe as a package as a quarterback (and) getting out there at wide receiver. We're going to use the best kids."</p>
</blockquote>
<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jsonline.com%2Fblogs%2Fsports%2F220239281.html&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.buckys5thquarter.com%2F2013%2F8%2F20%2F4639712%2Fgary-andersen-barry-alvarez-media-practices-policy" target="_blank" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener">Bo Ryan's Badgers set to face Indiana twice on ESPN | Milwaukee Journal Sentinel</a></p>
<p>I really can't wrap my mind around the presence of hoops sorta lying just around the corner, though this is pretty cool. Wisconsin will play ESPN twice as part of the "Super Tuesday" package. The first game comes 6 p.m. CT Jan. 14 at Indiana, with the second slated for 8 p.m. Feb. 25 in Madison.</p>
<p>Also, don't miss <a target="_blank" href="http://www.buckys5thquarter.com/2013/8/19/4637142/5-crazy-nights-badgers-go-north-of-the-border">Phil's previews of this week's Canaidan exhibition series</a> -- sounds like he's even putting together some nifty <i><b>infographics</b></i>.</p>
https://www.buckys5thquarter.com/2013/8/20/4639712/gary-andersen-barry-alvarez-media-practices-policyMike Fiammetta2013-08-20T07:48:18-05:002013-08-20T07:48:18-05:00KKSE Episode 7: Scrimmage No. 2 recap
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/k5gAzcHZgHZ0mwjwBk9cThnEKgo=/0x44:4000x2711/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/18144407/158859615.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Harry How</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Big show last night! Who showed up at Monday's scrimmage? Which Badgers shined? Plus, the Green Bay Press Gazette's Wes Hodkiewicz talks the Packers' preseason victory. Did we mention the bonus Gary Andersen audio as well?</p> <p>Dzien dobry ("Good morning") all!</p>
<p>Check out last night's show!</p>
<p><iframe frameborder="0" src="http://player.cinchcast.com/?show_id=5289903&platformId=1&assetType=single" height="370" width="400"></iframe></p>
<div style="font-size: 10px;text-align: center; width:400px;">
<a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/sports">More Sports Podcasts at Blog Talk Radio</a> with <a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/kielbasakingsse">Kielbasa Kings Sports Extravaganza</a> on BlogTalkRadio</div>
<p> </p>
<p>"The Polish Rifle" Scott Wisniewski and I first dig into the results of Monday's second scrimmage of your <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/teams/wisconsin-badgers" class="sbn-auto-link">Wisconsin Badgers</a>. Were there any updates on the quarterback battle between <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/38635/curt-phillips" class="sbn-auto-link">Curt Phillips</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/132124/joel-stave" class="sbn-auto-link">Joel Stave</a> and <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/138020/tanner-mcevoy" class="sbn-auto-link">Tanner McEvoy</a>? Did any receivers pop out to complement <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/77770/jared-abbrederis" class="sbn-auto-link">Jared Abbrederis</a>? Which defensive players stood out? We answer all of those questions and more in the first half-hour-plus.</p>
<p>We also discuss the Ryan Braun and Alex Rodriguez situations -- should the Milwaukee Brewers' left fielder just admit to everything in a press conference rather than just a written statement? And how bad is the blood between A-Rod and the New York Yankees?</p>
<p>Scott also gives his thoughts on the Packers' victory over the St. Louis Rams, before we proudly welcome another Polish-American sportswriter, Wes Hodkiewicz of the Green Bay Press Gazette, to go in-depth about position battles, who stood out Saturday night and the Aaron Rodgers/Donald Driver/Greg Jennings media storm.</p>
<p>Before we wrap up the show, we bring you an added bonus, as we play Wisconsin head coach Gary Andersen's post-scrimmage media session in its entirety. Interesting comments indeed provided by coach Andersen.</p>
<p>Don't forget to check us out on Twitter! <a href="https://twitter.com/B5Q" target="_blank">@B5Q</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/KielbasaKingsWI" target="_blank">@KielbasaKingsWI</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/ScottWisniewsk2" target="_blank">@ScottWisniewsk2</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/B5Q_KKSE_Kuba" target="_blank">@B5Q_KKSE_Kuba</a>.</p>
<p><i>Next Monday night: We'll talk more football, and hopefully have some big names on to preview the Badgers and Big Ten season.</i></p>
<h4>More from Bucky's 5th Quarter:</h4>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.buckys5thquarter.com/wisconsin-badgers-football/2013/8/20/4639158/jake-keefer-wisconsin-defensive-end-season-over-w-injury?utm_source=buckys5thquarter&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Jake Keefer, Wisconsin defensive end, out for season w/ knee injury</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.buckys5thquarter.com/wisconsin-badgers-football/2013/8/19/4638240/wisconsin-scrimmage-recap-curt-phillips-joel-stave-alex-erickson-james-white-leon-jacobs?utm_source=buckys5thquarter&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Wisconsin scrimmage recap: 1st units, pair of freshmen impress</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.buckys5thquarter.com/2013/8/19/4636232/badgers-canada-summer-trip-part-1-frank-kaminsky-rebounding?utm_source=buckys5thquarter&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">What to Watch in Canada, Part I: Frank Kaminsky's rebounding</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.buckys5thquarter.com/wisconsin-hockey-recruiting/2013/8/19/4636616/brock-boeser-usa-hockey-five-nations-tournament?utm_source=buckys5thquarter&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Wiscosnin recruit Brock Boeser leads U.S. U-17's to gold at Five Nations Tournament</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.buckys5thquarter.com/2013/8/19/4636106/wisconsin-football-offensive-line-secondary-schedule?utm_source=buckys5thquarter&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Wisconsin football: Accentuating the positive</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.buckys5thquarter.com/wisconsin-hockey-recruiting/2013/8/18/4634698/christian-dvorak-london-knights-wisconsin-badgers?utm_source=buckys5thquarter&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Christian Dvorak gives up eligibility to sign with OHL's London Knights</a></li>
</ul>
https://www.buckys5thquarter.com/kielbasa-kings-sports-extravaganza-podcast/2013/8/20/4639606/kielbasa-kings-podcast-wisconsin-scrimmage-recap-green-bay-packers-preseasonJake Kocorowski2013-08-20T00:26:10-05:002013-08-20T00:26:10-05:00Jake Keefer out for season due to injury
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<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/DmAgGZErdGAsJJL8LOmVu0gS8kY=/71x0:927x571/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/18144941/124519251.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Jonathan Daniel</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Keefer, who suffered a torn lateral meniscus in the Badgers' first scrimmage Aug. 12, will miss the duration of his redshirt sophomore season. He could be back for Wisconsin's potential bowl game.</p> <p>Wisconsin sophomore defensive end <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/135217/jake-keefer" class="sbn-auto-link">Jake Keefer</a> will miss the upcoming 2013 regular season after suffering a lateral meniscus tear last week, <a href="http://www.wqow.com/story/23177750/2013/08/19/keefer-to-miss-regular-season-with-meniscus-tear" target="_blank">according to a report</a> from WQOW, a Eau Claire, Wis., local news station.</p>
<p>Keefer, a Woodville, Wis., native, <a href="http://www.buckys5thquarter.com/2013/8/12/4615676/wisconsin-scrimmage-recap-q-a-with-badgerblitzs-john-veldhuis" target="_blank">suffered the injury</a> in the Badgers' first of two fall scrimmages Aug. 12. In the scrimmage, which was open to the public, Keefer fell to the ground and needed assistance off the field. He told WQOQ <a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/stephen_wqow/status/369659100381970432">he had surgery last week</a> and is targeting a possible return for a potential bowl game. After redshirting in 2011 and playing linebacker in four games last season, including the Big Ten Championship Game, Keefer was slated to move to defensive end in Wisconsin's new 3-4 defense under first-year coordinator Dave Aranda. Per the WQOW report, Keefer gained nearly 40 pounds to prepare for the switch.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>In a text message, Keefer wrote: "I have high spirits, and am on the road to recovery. I will do whatever I can to come back in better shape." He adds that he will work in rehab to get back in time for Wisconsin's potential bowl game.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>Keefer was a four-star linebacker by Rivals and Scout out of Baldwin-Woodville High School. Both services also had him as the top-ranked Wisconsin player of the 2011 class.</p>
<div class="read-more">
<strong>More</strong>: <a href="http://www.buckys5thquarter.com/pages/badgers-projected-depth-chart" target="new">B5Q projected depth chart</a>
</div>
<p>Up front this season, the Badgers appear set to start a trio of seniors on the defensive line. Ends Pat Muldoon and <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/77792/ethan-hemer" class="sbn-auto-link">Ethan Hemer</a> will bookend nose guard <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/114201/beau-allen" class="sbn-auto-link">Beau Allen</a>, the linebackers could feature as many as four starting linebackers if <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/77781/chris-borland" class="sbn-auto-link">Chris Borland</a>, Brendan Kelly, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/77779/ethan-armstrong" class="sbn-auto-link">Ethan Armstrong</a> and <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/77769/conor-o-neill" class="sbn-auto-link">Conor O'Neill</a> are the first-teamers.</p>
<p>Keefer's loss won't be critical for Wisconsin, though he could've factored into the outside linebacker position battle this fall. Perhaps he'll suit up for the bowl game, though it appears likely we won't see Keeler until spring 2014.</p>
<h4>More from Bucky's 5th Quarter:</h4>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.buckys5thquarter.com/wisconsin-badgers-football/2013/8/19/4638240/wisconsin-scrimmage-recap-curt-phillips-joel-stave-alex-erickson-james-white-leon-jacobs?utm_source=buckys5thquarter&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Wisconsin scrimmage recap: 1st units, pair of freshmen impress</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.buckys5thquarter.com/2013/8/19/4636232/badgers-canada-summer-trip-part-1-frank-kaminsky-rebounding?utm_source=buckys5thquarter&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">What to Watch in Canada, Part I: Frank Kaminsky's rebounding</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.buckys5thquarter.com/wisconsin-hockey-recruiting/2013/8/19/4636616/brock-boeser-usa-hockey-five-nations-tournament?utm_source=buckys5thquarter&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Wiscosnin recruit Brock Boeser leads U.S. U-17's to gold at Five Nations Tournament</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.buckys5thquarter.com/2013/8/19/4636106/wisconsin-football-offensive-line-secondary-schedule?utm_source=buckys5thquarter&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Wisconsin football: Accentuating the positive</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.buckys5thquarter.com/wisconsin-badgers-mens-basketball/2013/8/18/4634270/josh-gasser-injury-update-wisconsin-canada-trip?utm_source=buckys5thquarter&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Josh Gasser injury update: Guard expected to play during Wisconsin's Canada tour</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.buckys5thquarter.com/wisconsin-hockey-recruiting/2013/8/18/4634698/christian-dvorak-london-knights-wisconsin-badgers?utm_source=buckys5thquarter&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Christian Dvorak gives up eligibility to sign with OHL's London Knights</a></li>
</ul>
https://www.buckys5thquarter.com/wisconsin-badgers-football/2013/8/20/4639158/jake-keefer-wisconsin-defensive-end-season-over-w-injuryMike Fiammetta