MADISON- Going into this next season for the Wisconsin Badgers many are looking to new recruits and last year’s redshirt players to step into the roles of the playmakers that have left on offense. Despite this belief, there is an explosive and versatile player on the Badgers right now who has been a significant contributor on offense for the last two seasons.
Garrett Groshek, the now redshirt senior, has been playing as the third-down back for Wisconsin since the 2017 season and has been very consistent. Last season, the Amherst, Wis. native rushed for 194 yards and two touchdowns, while receiving 29 targets through the air for 289 yards. He was averaging nearly 10 yards per catch last season, which is extremely impressive for a running back. Groshek rushed for 425 yards on 65 carries in 2018, which left him with an outstanding 6.5 yards per carry. Groshek has proved that in a very difficult Big Ten that he can be extremely productive on the ground and through the air.
One thing that is not shown in Garrett Groshek’s stats is his pass blocking, which has improved in every season he has played. Since 2018 he has been the lead passing down back for Wisconsin and has done a great job of keeping Jack Coan off of the ground. Groshek has cemented himself as a fixture of this offense, and even though he might not be the bell-cow back for next season, he will be playing more than ever because of the loss of Jonathon Taylor, AJ Taylor, and Quintez Cephus. The consistent playmaking ability and experience that Garrett Groshek has brought to Wisconsin has been unmatched by any running back currently on the roster, which is why he should be considered as one of Wisconsin’s most dangerous players going into next season.
If you have trouble believing me, here are some of his highlights from the last few seasons.
Some want to point out Senior RB Garrett Groshek, but it feels like he feel out of favor after being out-rushed by Watson last year. Reliable and sturdy depth option who will be able to step in should the other options struggle pic.twitter.com/kTj6aqs5hp
— Cory P. (@FF_Guitarist) April 5, 2020