After looking at three offensive players who could break out this season, it’s time to look at three Wisconsin Football players who could break out on defense. We’ve seen different looks and formations throughout spring practices with new defensive coordinator Mike Tressel. Despite players like Nick Herbig and Keeanu Benton not being here anymore, I still think this has the potential to be a really good defense. Here are my three players I think could have breakout years in 2023 on defense.
Wisconsin Football Potential Breakout No. 1: Hunter Wohler
I have really high expectations for Hunter Wohler this season. When healthy, he is the best safety Wisconsin Football has to offer. After playing primarily special teams his freshman year, he stepped into a starting role as a sophomore. However, he suffered an injury in the first game and missed two months. He did end the year with 21 tackles.
Wohler is a thumper and a physical safety. He also has had a good spring and is primed to break out this season. If he can play to the potential he’s capable of, I would not be surprised if the former four-star recruit heads to the 2024 NFL Draft. He’s that good and has the potential to be that good.
Wisconsin Football Potential Breakout No. 2: Kamo’i Latu
Kamo’i Latu named Big Ten Defensive Player of the Week” />
After transferring from Utah, Latu played a lot of special teams last season. With the injury to Hunter Wohler, Latu also played his fair share as safety. I thought he played really well for a backup safety. He broke out on the scene with two interceptions against Northwestern last season. Latu ended the year with 56 total tackles.
I would be shocked if Latu is not the other starting safety next to Wohler. I also like Travian Blaylock as well, but Latu has proven he can stay healthy and has been able to stay on the field. I like his physicality and his nose for the ball as well. I believe Wisconsin Football has one of the best safety duos in the conference.
Wisconsin Football Potential Breakout No. 3: Ricardo Hallman
The corner position was one of the biggest question marks heading into this season. I liked what Ricardo Hallman brought as a redshirt freshman last season. There were a ton of seniors ahead of Hallman, so we didn’t get a huge sample size. However, when he played, he could stick with most Big Ten receivers. Hallman also recorded an interception and nine total tackles.
Practice No. 12… defense won the day.
Ricardo Hallman with three INTs on the day, including a pick six on the first play.
Preston Zachman has a pick six as well.
Chimere Dike had one of his best days. Had a number of sure handed catches. #Badgers— Raul Vazquez (@VazquezRivals) April 20, 2023
Hallman was the best defender in spring practice today as well. He recorded three interceptions and has been all over the field as well. He has a chance to be Wisconsin’s No. 1 corner coming into the season.
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