There is now 96 days until the start of the Wisconsin football season on Sept. 2 versus Buffalo. As we continue our countdown, the 1996 season was a momentous one for a freshman ball-carrier.
In his first season with the Badgers, New Jersey native Ron Dayne became an instant star. The freshman running back burst onto the scene, producing 2,109 rushing yards and 21 scores on the ground, both of which were program records.
The 5-foot-10, 240-pound athlete was the focal point in offensive coordinator Brad Childress’ “Smashmouth” offense, churning out 6.5 yards per carry over 325 chances in 13 games with Wisconsin.
Dayne went on to compile three more successful campaigns with the Badgers, finishing his career with 7,125 rushing yards and 71 touchdowns over his four seasons, which were both program records as well.
The bruising back finished off his time with Wisconsin on a high note, helping head coach Barry Alvarez and the Badgers win their second straight Rose Bowl in January 2000, while also winning the 1999 Heisman Trophy that season. Dayne rushed for 2,034 yards and 20 touchdowns in his final year, ultimately being selected 11th overall in the 2000 NFL Draft by the New York Giants.