The Wisconsin Badgers have defeated the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders after initially battling toe-to-toe in a tight first half contest.
Middle Tennessee looked like a deflated team last week during the notable loss to Austin Peay, but entered Madison with a noticeably different energy and mindset. Wisconsin was certainly allowing the game to stay far too close for comfort in the first half, but entered the final two quarters of play with a different energy and mindset of their own.
With the win in the books, here are three players who stood out for Wisconsin and ended up being pivotal contributors in the win.
Wisconsin Badgers Star #1: Linebacker Christian Alliegro
The former high school lacrosse standout put together a great first game of the season for Wisconsin, and followed up his opening performance with another great game against Middle Tennessee. Alliegro looks fast, strong, and aggressive on the field this season between his big tackles and explosive speed that shuts down plays before they start.
Against Middle Tennessee, Alliegro looked great as he flew across the field and made important tackles for the Badgers defense which is reliant upon the linebacker. Alliegro finished the game with seven tackles, two of which were for a loss, as the Badgers kept the Blue Raiders under 50 yards rushing.
Wisconsin Badgers Star #2: Tight End Lance Mason
The tight end position has been one the Badgers have struggled to find production out of since the departure of now NFL tight end Jake Ferguson. Wisconsin has been searching for answers at the position since, and former Missouri State standout Lance Mason could be just the guy.
The tight end recorded seven receptions for 102 yards and one score for Wisconsin as many of his receptions helped drive the offense down the field. Quarterback Danny O’Neil had a great day, and part of his success was due to Mason getting open and making plays happen in the open field. Knowing what Mason is capable of now, the Badgers may try to continue to get the talented tight end involved.
Wisconsin Badgers Star #3: Quarterback Danny O’Neil
Talking about stars of the game without mentioning O’Neil would be criminal after the much improved performance out of the quarterback. O’Neil played well in relief of starter Billy Edwards Jr. last week but admittedly did not have the experience with the first team offense to be fully prepared. With a full week and plenty of time to work with the starters, O’Neil looked excellent and managed to hurt Middle Tennessee on the ground and through the air as well.
Big motion touchdowns to Trech Kekahuna and Vinny Anthony II showcased how defenses can never take an eye off of O’Neil due to the threat he presents on the ground. Should Edwards Jr. be cleared to return to play next week against Alabama, another competition between the two quarterbacks in practice seems like a possibility.
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