Wisconsin's keys to victory vs. Illinois State

I expect Wisconsin to run a ton, especially on the first drive. The Badgers want to set the tone and make their running game presence known immediately, as they should. Wisconsin has one of, if not the best 1-2 duo in the country with Braelon Allen and Chez Mellusi.

However, I would like to see Paul Chryst and the Wisconsin offense get the receivers involved early as well. It’s an unproven group outside of Chimere Dike. I don’t think the Badgers need to go for the hail mary, but some high-percentage throws to establish early confidence at a young position is a good idea. I don’t think Graham Mertz will or has to throw the ball 30 times but enough to keep the Illinois State defense honest and respect the arm of Mertz.

Run, Run and Run Some More

Didn’t I just say the Badgers should keep the receivers involved early? Yes, I did. However, the running game is the identity and bread and butter of this offense. An early break-off run from Allen would be ideal. I also want to see how Mellusi responds to early contact and what his workload will be.

Mellusi and Isaac Guerendo are both coming off of season-ending injuries last season. I don’t expect a huge load from either player. Look for Julius Davis to get some reps as well. A lot of players could carry the ball Saturday night.

Will the Back Eight Be Challenged Early?

We know the defensive line for the Badgers will be fine. There is a ton of talent, led by Keeanu Benton. The linebackers and secondary have seen a lot of turnover from a year ago. Nick Herbig is the only exception. We will see at least seven new starters between these two positions. Will Illinois State challenge them early through the air, or will the Redbirds try to establish an early run game and keep the Badger defense on the field for long periods of time?

I will never question Jim Leonhard and his defense. They will be fine Saturday, and they’ll be a great unit again in 2022.

Prediction

After coming off a 4-7 year last season, Illinois State will be looking for a huge upset in the first week of the season. There’s no doubt Wisconsin is a better team, and it’s not close. However, these are the games where the opponent has nothing to lose and want to make itself known. I also worry about trick plays and special teams. These keep bad teams in games they shouldn’t be in.

I could see Wisconsin slowly working into this game. I’m not expecting flashy plays early. I think the offense will slowly get into a rhythm, and the defense will be aggressive early. There won’t be an upset in Madison Saturday night. I think the Badgers roll to a 1-0 record.

Wisconsin- 35 Illinois State- 13