The Wisconsin Badgers previously worked hard to return a top collegiate performer home, and succeeded in doing so in a tremendous way.
Matthew Jung, a native of Neenah, Wisconsin, was not a highly recruited athlete out of high school despite showing signs. Jung played quarterback and safety for his high school, performing well on both sides of the play for his team. However, Jung was relatively undersized and needed time to fully round out both his frame and his skills on the field.
Fast forward two years, and the defensive back has carved his name into the D-III record books with two tremendous years. Jung finished his career with Bethel University with 16 interceptions, 181 total tackles, 3.5 sacks, and eight total touchdowns across offense, defense, and special teams.
Jung committed to the Wisconsin Badgers after entering the transfer portal, which was a move that was expected given his production. The safety ultimately chose to stay close to home which is a decision that could truly benefit the Badgers during the upcoming season. Jung will have two years of eligibility left after transferring into the program.
In-State Product Matthew Jung Could be Versatile Playmaker for Wisconsin Badgers
Jung was primarily brought in to sure-up the safety position, but given his incredible versatility, the potential options for Jung are seemingly never ending. The Neenah native played on offense, defense, and special teams during his time at Bethel, which was arguably a very productive stay.
Just last season alone, Jung recorded four pick-sixes for 262 yards, a punt return touchdown, nine interceptions, two forced fumbles, 2.5 sacks, 109 total tackles, and one receiving touchdown. Jung finished the season with six total scores, which made Jung the sixth-highest scoring player on the roster. Previously as a true freshman, the defensive back recorded two pick-sixes and seven total interceptions.
The defensive back primarily played safety for Bethel, but also appeared as a punter returner, kick returner, and also a receiver in special packages.
Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
While Jung is primarily going to play safety for the Wisconsin Badgers, the defensive back is a very successful special teams player and could help the Wisconsin unit. Jung was a kick and punt returner last season and recorded a punt return touchdown. Jung also finished the year with 335 punt return yards which ranked 11th in D-III football last season.
Jung also recorded 398 kick return yards last season and only returned kicks for five games out of a possible 14 games. Wisconsin does not have a fully outlined special teams unit yet, and Jung could be an option at multiple positions within the unit due to his versatility and physical play. Jung may not become a full-time returner for the Wisconsin Badgers, but expect big tackles and crucial stops to be made by the defensive back.
Given the talent on the offensive side of the ball, however, Jung may not find a similar role as a receiver, but still could offer valuable athleticism on offense if needed.
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