The Wisconsin Badgers football program is best known for its superior running game. There is a reason why many offensive linemen and running backs from the program end up in the NFL. However, the team performs best when there is a decent quarterback who can keep defense honest. This is something that Wisconsin has struggled to achieve. With Jack Coan, though, there just might be hope. In fact, there are several reasons to believe that Jack Coan will breakout this year.
Reason to Believe #1- Returning Receivers and Linemen
The Wisconsin offense is certainly taking a hit with Jonathan Taylor leaving for the NFL. However, given the Badgers success in developing running backs, the running game is not much of a concern. What is going to be vital to the success of Jack Coan, a senior this year, is the fact that many of his receivers and offensive linemen are returning.
Danny Davis, Kendric Pryor, Jack Dunn, and Adam Krumholz are all senior receivers that are returning next season. Davis and Pryor are expected to be the starters. In addition, senior lineman Cole Van Lanen is coming back for 2020. Four junior linemen are returning as well. The abundance of experienced players who know the offense will be a huge asset to Coan as he looks to take the next step in his development.
Reason to Believe #2- History Repeats Itself
Last season, Jack Coan threw for 2,727 yards and 18 touchdowns against just five interceptions. He also had a completion percentage of 69.6 %. The last Badgers quarterbacks to have those kinds of numbers were Scott Tolzien and Russell Wilson. That is some pretty good company, as both played (or are still playing) in the NFL.
Of course, Wisconsin running backs often garner the most attention from national scouts and outlets. However, it appears that Jack Coan is already being scouted as a potential selection for the Senior Bowl next season:
The Senior Bowl is a special game for NFL prospects (some juniors are invited to play) to play in front of NFL scouts. Coan is likely not to be a high-round draft pick, but could be taken in the middle or lower rounds.
Reason to Believe #3- Jack Coan Is a Leader
Prior to the Rose Bowl loss last season, Coan stated, “I’d say from last year, my leadership definitely grew a good amount.” He referenced how his chemistry with the offense improved in his first full season as the starter. With a full year under his belt and many guys looking at him to lead, he is ready and willing to take that leadership role. The Badgers lost the Rose Bowl last season, and Coan does not want to lose again. Look for him to be encouraging and leading his guys, even when they are not on the field.
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