The Wisconsin Badgers have landed a big four-star quarterback commitment in the 2025 recruiting class after weeks of pushing.
Carter Smith, a four-star quarterback from Florida, has committed to the Wisconsin Badgers over the Florida State Seminoles following visits to both schools. Smith was previously a hard commitment for the Michigan Wolverines, but left his nearly year-long commitment after talks with top-ranked quarterback and recruit Bryce Underwood began.
The quarterback then became a favorite to stay in-state with the Seminoles until Florida State flipped Oklahoma commitment Kevin Sperry, which appeared to make the decision for Smith. The talented quarterback was in Madison for the narrow loss against the Oregon Ducks that ultimately led to the firing of offensive coordinator Phil Longo.
Some Badgers fans and journalists alike felt the firing of Longo and the ongoing search could have various impacts on the recruitment of offensive players moving forward. However, it has proven to be a move that early on has not had an effect on the recruiting situation as Smith committed despite the firing and search. Smith now joins a loaded 2025 Wisconsin Badgers recruiting class that should boost the overall talent of the team on both sides of the football.
But, the commitment of Smith does also raise plenty of questions with the most obvious one involving who will be playing quarterback for the Wisconsin Badgers moving forward. Current starting quarterback and fringe bench candidate Braedyn Locke has been heavily scrutinized this season due to his interceptions and overall play. Some analysts not only suspect that Locke could be benched in one of the final games, but also suspect the quarterback will transfer out of the program.
Locke was brought into the program by Longo, and while coach Luke Fickell is giving Locke a chance to play without his coordinator, that does not mean he is the quarterback next season. If Locke were to exit, which seems very possible, that would leave Mabrey Mettauer and Smith as the two main quarterbacks vying for the starting role.
Could the Wisconsin Badgers Start Mabrey Mettauer, Carter Smith During 2025 Season?
Mettauer is someone the Wisconsin Badgers staff loves and sees plenty of potential in, but the staff also does not feel the quarterback is ready to play yet.
Wisconsin will certainly be involved in the transfer portal search for a quarterback as it would seemingly be irresponsible to not to at least see who will be available.
Smith could certainly contend for the starting role, but very well might need a year to adjust like Mettauer has this season. It is important to note however that Smith is certainly someone who looks more capable of doing what the Wisconsin Badgers may want to do on offense.
There are plenty of rumors swirling regarding Wisconsin returning to a run-heavy, smash-mouth type of football that Smith would arguably excel in as a playmaker. Smith is capable of throwing a football 40-plus times a game, but the quarterback has been an extremely efficient player and has not had to do so much in the past.
Wisconsin needs someone who can make the passes that need to be made and can extend plays with his legs or his arm, which Smith would excel at doing.
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