Former Wisconsin Badgers linebacker Zack Baun dominated in the Philadelphia Eagles’ season opener against the Green Bay Packers on Friday night in Sao Paolo, Brazil.
Baun, who played his previous four NFL seasons at linebacker with the New Orleans Saints, was by far and away the best player for Eagles’ defensive coordinator Vic Fangio during the Week 1 matchup.
The Brown Deer, Wisconsin native registered 15 total tackles, all but four of which were solo, two sacks, two quarterback hits and one tackle for loss in the Eagles’ 34-29 victory over the Packers. He even clinched the victory with a sack on quarterback Malik Willis on third down during the game’s final sequence.
Baun’s previous career-high in tackles was eight in 2021 with the Saints. He nearly doubled it in his Philadelphia debut.
Throughout Friday’s broadcast, NBC color analyst and former NFL quarterback Todd Blackledge continued to mention how impressive Baun was for the Eagles. He wasn’t wrong.
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Whether it be defending the pass, run or exploding down the offensive line to apply pressure to starting quarterback Jordan Love, Baun flew all over Corinthians Arena in Brazil.
Baun is the second Badger alumnus to appear in Week 1 following Chiefs’ linebacker Leo Chenal strong debut vs. the Baltimore Ravens on Thursday night. Chenal notched seven tackles, one tackle for loss and two pass deflections in the 27-20 win at Arrowhead.
If he continues to play like this, Baun will quickly become a staple in the middle of Philadelphia’s defensive unit. In a division with the Dallas Cowboys and budding Washington Commanders, his impact could impact the way the entire defense performs throughout the remainder of the season.