After looking at predictions for the Wisconsin Football offense, next, we will look at the defense. The defense has a ton of production to replace. However, because of the transfer portal and young studs in the wings, Jim Leonhard’s defense has a chance to be great this year.
Darryl Peterson Breaks Out
It’s clear that Wisconsin Football is one of the best programs in the country in producing edge rushers. Just look at players like T.J. Watt, Joe Schobert, and Andrew Van Ginkel. The Badgers currently have Nick Herbig as the next guy in line. He has a good shot of hearing his name called in the 2023 NFL Draft.
I believe after Herbig that Darryl Peterson is next in line. As a former four-star prospect, the redshirt freshman looks poised to make an immediate impact. Peterson got some valuable reps both in the Las Vegas Bowl and bowl prep. I think he begins the season after C.J. Goetz, but don’t be surprised if we see Peterson all over the field this season.
Hunter Wohler Is The Best Player In The Secondary
Wisconsin Football got some help in the transfer portal at the cornerback position. Jay Shaw, Cedrick Dort, and Justin Clark are all new to the room. John Torchio also returns for another season as the other safety. Despite the experience and leadership, I think Hunter Wohler is the player we’ll be talking about at the end of the day.
While Wohler mostly played during mop-up duty last season, we saw flashes of what the former four-star prospect brings to the table. He’s fast, strong, and has a nose for the ball. He’s still a young player, but the potential is sky-high.
The Wisconsin Football Defense Is One Of The Best Nationally Again
It’s easy to say the defense will take a step back this year. After all, they need to replace two starting inside linebackers and two corners with four years of starting experience.
While the experience might be a question, the talent is there. Keeanu Benton returns to man the trenches on the defensive line. Jordan Turner has a ton of talent at inside linebacker, and the secondary is a mixture of youth and veterans. Jim Leonhard is also one of the best defensive coordinators in all of college football.
This Wisconsin Football defense will be hungry and will look to be dominant in 2022. Don’t be shocked if they are just as good, if not better.
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