As the Wisconsin Badgers continue to fight battles on the football field, more battles present themselves in the stands that could become lingering issues.

There is no doubt that playing in front of recruits and performing well for the current commitments is needed to sustain any off-field success. However, more and more Wisconsin commitments have become linked to other programs and many have even booked opposing visits. Now a top commitment within the 2026 class is at the forefront of potential flip discussions after booking a visit with the Ohio State Buckeyes.

Four-star running back and Georgia native Amari Latimer may not be the top ranked commitment Wisconsin holds in the 2026 class at the moment, but the recruit is certainly the one who has taken the most effort. Wide receiver Jayden Petit, who was also a major landing, currently leads the board as Latimer continues to rise through the rankings.

Despite holding a commitment to the Badgers, Latimer has been closely tied to programs such as Michigan, Ohio State, Georgia, Texas, and Georgia Tech. Recently, the Buckeyes have begun to draw closer to the running back and will now host Latimer for another visit. The running back previously visited the program during the summer and met with the staff.

Wisconsin Badgers Running Back Commitment Amari Latimer Visiting Ohio State Buckeyes

Flips are part of the game now in college football recruiting and the fact that other programs want the players Wisconsin has is a good sign in a way. The Badgers are finally in the running for serious talent, but that does not mean anything if the talent does not land in Madison and produce on the field.

With Latimer, there is a serious concern now regarding whether or not the running back will actually become a member of the program. Aside from everything going on with the Badgers on the field, programs like Ohio State, Georgia, and Texas can all offer much greater financial packages to the running back. If push comes to shove, Latimer may opt to follow the recent success and money in order to have a potentially more lucrative collegiate career.

However with the on-field struggles of Wisconsin added in, a commitment flip feels like a decision that is brewing for the running back. Wisconsin has had flashes of success on the ground but an entire game of ground dominance has not been seen this season. Additionally, the Badgers have not had a 100-yard rusher yet this season which is bizarre for a program whose biggest selling point has been the “running back university” pitch.

Wisconsin last had a 100-yard rusher on October 19th of 2024 against Northwestern during the 23-3 win when Tawee Walker recorded 126 yards rushing. If Wisconsin cannot improve on the ground, selling Latimer on staying in Madison in the future might become very difficult.

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