The Wisconsin football offense is looking to bounce back from last season. Under the leadership of first-year offensive coordinator Phil Longo, the offense has shown glimpses of what it is designed to do. For the most part, though, the offense looked clunky and uncharacteristic at times. In Year 2 the offense should be cleaner and more organized. Here are the four x-factors that I believe will determine Wisconsin’s football offense in 2024.
Wisconsin football X-factor: Tyler Van Dyke
Every successful offense starts with a good quarterback. Tyler Van Dyke is a seasoned veteran who spent the last year of college football. Like Tanner Mordecai last season, Van Dyke needs to figure out the offense quickly. He will play a large role in the development of Wisconsin’s football offense this season.
Mordecai was a fantastic leader last year and I expect Van Dyke to be the same. He will need to play the football smartly and keep the offense on the field for long periods of time. While there could be some competition in fall camp, I would be shocked if Van Dyke was not the starting quarterback for Wisconsin football when the season opens against Western Michigan.
Phil Longo
Uwgrid Phil Longo January 5, 2023
Ultimately, this is Longo’s crime and he has complete control over it. In my opinion, this is a large year for the Wisconsin football offensive coordinator. Last year it was a youthful offense in a up-to-date scheme. With most of the youthful players returning, it will be up to Longo to ensure this offense ends as quickly as possible.
I really like Longo’s offense. After seeing what they did against Buffalo early last year, this isn’t a true air raid offense. This offense can succeed running the ball. I expect a good mix of both players to start the season.
In Mellusia
In each of the last few seasons, Mellusi has been unlucky with season-ending injuries. When Mellusi is on the field, the Wisconsin football offense is better and arguably its best.
I don’t expect Mellusi to be a bell cow again. Instead, I think Oklahoma transfer Tawee Walker will also get adequate reps. This offense is better when we have two threats on defense. I just hope Mellusi stays on the pitch and avoids another injury.
Tucker Ashcraft
Ashcraft is an captivating choice. He didn’t make flashy plays last season as a true rookie, but he could get open up the middle. For all the offensive threats from the defense and wide receiver, Ashcraft has the potential to be a pass-catching weapon. A tight end is also a quarterback’s best friend. If Ashcraft can be a viable option for Tyler Van Dyke, I think we’ll see more conversations and longer drives.
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