Anytime there is a coaching change in a college football program, the whole staff gets completely overhauled. Wisconsin made a big splash in hiring Luke Fickell. While his recruiting prowess has been well-documented, he also has many connections throughout the sport. Fickell has used those connections to hire a new offensive coordinator. Wisconsin has reportedly hired Phil Longo from North Carolina to be the new offensive coordinator.
SOURCE: Phil Longo is leaving UNC to go to Wisconsin to become the Badgers OC. He had a prolific offense in Chapel Hill and helped develop Drake Maye into a star this year. He's had a strong relationship with Luke Fickell for awhile and he interviewed for the Cincy OC before.
— Bruce Feldman (@BruceFeldmanCFB) December 7, 2022
Wisconsin Hires Phil Longo As Offensive Coordinator
Longo has a history with Fickell. He interviewed for the Cincinnati offensive coordinator position before so Fickell knows what he brings to the table. This year, Longo headed up a prolific offense at North Carolina. QB Drake Maye had a fantastic season and was one of the best quarterbacks in the game. Since Longo took over the offense, North Carolina ranks in the top 10 in points per game and passing yards. This is a huge get for the Wisconsin Badgers program.
A Shift In Philosophy
Wisconsin’s offense is going to look very different. For years the Badgers have been the gritty team. Run the ball. Control the clock. Keep the game low scoring. A classic Wisconsin win would be 20-17 or something like that. Under Fickell and Longo, the Badgers might have a top offense not just in the Big Ten but nationally. This is a total shift in philosophy which is a good thing for the program.
While there have been some disappointments in the recruiting realm, the coaching staff looks to be coming together. Wisconsin is attracting big-name coaches which in turn will help attract big-name recruits. Quarterbacks will see what Longo did with Drake Maye at North Carolina and see the potential in partnering with his offense. Badger fans should be very excited about Phil Longo in Wisconsin.
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1 Comment
Jim Leonhard was everything Wisconsin was all about. He never complained or offered excuses.
Best of luck to you and your family.
We in Wisconsin know that you will land on your feet. We know wherever you go the defe se of the team will be outstanding.
I hope we see you down the road Coach Leonhard.