Three studs and duds from Wisconsin's 38-0 win over Illinois State

Graham Mertz

For all the struggles that Graham Mertz has had in the past, he sure looked like the hyped up quarterback prospect that originally committed to Wisconsin. Unlike in pervious seasons, Mertz was crisp with his throws, patient as plays developed, and took what he could get when receivers were covered downfield.

Mertz finished the night completing 14-of-16 passes for 219 yards and a touchdown. He did not throw his first touchdown pass of 2021 until the Badgers’ third game. On this night, he threw it in the third quarter. Additionally, Mertz connected with Chimere Dike for a 74-yard completion. It was Mertz’s longest completion and Dike’s longest reception in their respective careers.

John Torchio

The Wisconsin Badgers are known for their running game and defense. Defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard played safety at Wisconsin and in the NFL, and is regarded as one of the best defensive coaches in all the NCAA. On this night, several of his players showcased why Wisconsin is known as one of the best defensive programs in the country. Perhaps none showed out more than safety John Torchio.

As Illinois State drove down the field, thanks in part to two dumb penalties by Wisconsin defenders, it appeared as if the Badgers would be playing from behind. However, Torchio intercepted a pass in the end zone and ran it back 100 yards for a pick-six. The interception completely deflated the Red Birds, who had been gaining momentum. Illinois State would not come that close to scoring for the rest of the game.

Three duds

When there is a win as complete and as dominant as the one the Badgers enjoyed Saturday, it is difficult to highlight duds without getting nitpicky, so nitpicky I shall be.

Dean Engram

As Wisconsin’s punt returner, Dean Engram sure had his fair share of opportunities against Illinois State. He ended up fielding two punts for -1 yards.

Dumb penalties

There were a few players who made some pretty bad mental mistakes in the first quarter. Prior to the Torchio interception, Wisconsin was whistled for roughing the passer and for a late hit on a receiver out of bounds. They cleaned up their mistakes later, but that was still concerning to see them come out like that.

The broadcasters

Okay, I know they aren’t Badgers broadcasters, but they deserve to have some mud slung at them. First, they said Braelon Allen would be a Heisman candidate if he lost some weight. Come on, really? Then, they referred to Allen as Braelon Edwards. Despite not scoring at all, Illinois State had a better night than the FS1 broadcasting crew.