The Wisconsin football team is entering the 2024 season boasting potentially one of the top defenses in the Big Ten Conference this year.
One of the leaders of the Badgers defense is cornerback Ricardo Hallman, who returned to Wisconsin this past off-season after considering the NFL Draft and the transfer portal. Hallman turned himself into a player that quarterbacks do not want to test after he defended the air with ease last season. Heading into the 2024 season, Hallman could certainly take the next step forward and build upon his massive season a year ago.
Wisconsin Football Veteran Ricardo Hallman Expected to Take Game to ‘Next Level’
A season ago the Wisconsin football staff, team, and fans watched on as cornerback Ricardo Hallman began to build his own island. While he did not use any sand, water, or physical materials to build his island, he did manage to build it through fearsome play in the air. Hallman recorded seven interceptions and five pass defenses last season against his opposition, including a three-game stretch where he recorded four interceptions.
Hallman truly put himself on the map during his first season as the featured cornerback in the Wisconsin defense. Following his success last season, Hallman considered testing his luck elsewhere, whether that would have been the draft or the transfer portal. However, the cornerback returned to the Badgers to add the firepower to their defense they needed.
With Hallman returning, the Wisconsin football staff and Head Coach Luke Fickell have expected the cornerback to take his skills to the ‘next level’. The staff feels Hallman proved who he was last season, but still has more left in the tank to reveal this upcoming season.
Wisconsin Badgers Football Staff, Defense Relying Upon Veteran Leadership
Heading into the 2024 season, there are plenty of changes around the team and one such change has involved the abundance of veteran players. Specifically on the defense, the Badgers are likely going to have a starting lineup comprised of 11 upperclassmen and two upperclassmen rotational players. Eight of the 11 projected starters on defense are also seniors who are playing on their final year of eligibility.
The Wisconsin staff loves their defense and the depth they have, but have also noted that they will need to rely upon their veterans to make a major impact.
Can Hallman Improve Upon his Tackling During the 2024 Season?
While Hallman was tremendous at taking the ball away and defending in the air for Wisconsin last season, there also was an area of improvement. Every player has something they need to work on to become the best version of themselves, and for Hallman that has been tackling.
Last season, Hallman recorded ten missed tackles, which accounted for 22.7% of his attempted tackles. Specifically this was an issue for Hallman against Georgia Southern and Nebraska as his missed tackles led to big plays. The Eagles recorded 115 total receiving yards on Hallman and 48 yards after the catch but did record an interception.
Against Nebraska, Hallman allowed his lone touchdown of the season after missing the tackle on his target. Tackling was an issue for the defensive back last season, but it was overshadowed by his seven interception season. With more size added to his frame and an off-season to develop, Hallman should certainly be able to improve upon his weak points from last season.
For More Great Wisconsin Sports Content
Follow me on Twitter (X) @JarrettGuerrera, and follow us @WiSportsHeroics for more great content. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on all things Wisconsin sports, click here
Mayfield Sports Marketing
Call Mayfield Sports Marketing at 262-366-8188 to schedule Green Bay Packers players or alumni for your corporate appearance or product promotion. Our booking agents will work on your behalf to get you the best price for your desired sports speaker. Mayfield Sports Marketing has earned a reputation of being the one to call for booking top athletes to speak at events and trade shows. To learn more about Packers players or alumni appearance cost and booking fee, please call us today. www.MayfieldSports.com
