Monday, September 30, 2024

Wisconsin football: Potential impactful freshman makes buzz ahead of 2024-25 season

The Wisconsin football staff put a ton of work into recent recruiting classes, finding potential players the moment they step onto the field.

One of those players in the upcoming season for the Wisconsin Badgers could be the quarterback. Gideon Itukasigned in 2024, Ituka is part of the first full class that head coach Luke Fickell was able to shepherd from start to finish. Despite being the lowest-rated running back of the three Wisconsin signees, Ituka has proven he can become a dominant force early on.

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Wisconsin Football’s rookie quarterback is ready to impress in the upcoming season

Wisconsin Badgers coach Luke Fickell will be looking for a novel wide receivers coach, as Mike Brown announced he is leaving to join the Notre Dame coaching staff.

After signing three running backs in the 2024 recruiting class, the Wisconsin football staff is hoping someone emerges as a future starter. Wisconsin will have a decision to make next season after starting running back In Mellusia I will complete my studies with the transfer Tawee Walker.

One of the quarterbacks who could prove himself and make a case for a future starter role could be a true freshman Gideon Ituka. Ituka, a three-star prospect from the 2024 recruiting class, was the lowest-rated running back Wisconsin signed in the 2024 class. Wisconsin also landed a four-star Dilin Jones and three stars Darrion Dupreewho was already a four-star when he signed with Wisconsin.

Despite not having the highest level of prominence, Ituka has a style of play that could be better suited for Wisconsin’s offense. The gigantic, powerful running back isn’t afraid to drop his shoulder and weave through opposing defenders. His willingness to strike and accelerate before hitting the hole could make Ituka a power running back this season.

Can Gideon Ituka be a standout player for the Wisconsin Badgers football team this season?

Wisconsin Football
October 14, 2023; Madison, Wisconsin, USA; A general view of the Wisconsin Badgers helmet during their game against the Iowa Hawkeyes at Camp Randall Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

While Ituka has been slaying in the weight room and improving his strength on the field, the running back still has some ground to fill before he can solidify himself as a power back. Heading into college, there were still some questions about Ituka’s game that he could improve on.

Ituka has struggled with separation in the secondary, sometimes getting caught from behind by defensive backs or having trouble getting past the last safety. If the running back can prove that when he finds space, he’s not there, it would be challenging not to give him some opportunities to carry. Ituka is a talented change-of-pace running back who can provide versatility out of the backfield if used correctly.

What can Ituka bring to the running back position?

Wisconsin Football
Wisconsin head coach Luke Fickell is shown during a spring football practice Thursday, April 25, 2024, in Madison, Wisconsin. The Wisconsin Badgers football team plays its first game of the season against Western Michigan on Aug. 31.

On the pitch, Ituka has a similar style of play to his teammate and running back Jackson Acker. Acker is a powerful, single-seam running back who hits the hole with sedate power. Ituka can provide that same power and desire to hit the hole, while also adding solid speed and creating a wrecking ball effect on the field.

The running back hits challenging because he’s already powerful, and combined with his steam head, his willingness to drop his shoulder can be terrifying for defenders. At 5-foot-10 and weighing in at around 230 pounds, Ituka is a tough player to contain, and it’ll only get harder as he gets bigger.

More great sports content about Wisconsin

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