As the 2019 season fully recedes into the pages of history, Badgers Wire is exploring what Wisconsin will look like — and can achieve — in 2020. We have been taking a look at the Badger offense, but now it’s time to switch sides and take a look at what the Badgers are bringing back on defense for the 2020 season. In order to make it easier to digest and disseminate, Badgers Wire will be breaking it up by position group. Next up for the Badgers is a look at the linebackers.
The linebackers were part of a defensive front seven that was No. 5 in the nation in team sacks and No. 6 in rush defense. Both of those statistics were good enough for the Badgers to be No. 2 in the Big Ten in both categories, with Ohio State having more sacks and Penn State having the No. 5 rushing defense. Unlike the defensive line, the linebackers are going to endure some key departures.
One of the biggest loses for the Badgers will be the play of Zack Baun. He was often backed up by Noah Burks, but Burks should get some support this year from Izayah Green-May, who was injured much of last year. The Badgers also landed four-star recruits Nick Herbig and Kaden Johnson, who ought to receive early playing time with the Badgers.
Noah Burks being one of the key performers on the defense in 2020 makes him the player who might carry more of a responsibility in holding the defense together. If he is up to the challenge, the other pieces of the puzzle might fit in the middle level of Wisconsin’s defense, which could branch out and lend continuity to all 11 defensive players on the field.
Another key loss for the Badgers is inside linebacker Chris Orr. He was more than just a dynamic difference-making player, he was a team leader as well. This departure means Jack Sanborn and Leo Chenal will likely get the most playing time on the inside.
There is a lot to like about the Badgers’ front seven. UW brought in some real talent with Herbig and Johnson, and the Badgers are returning several solid contributors from last year’s campaign.
It could be another great year for this unit. A specific point to make here is that because injuries in 2018 gave more players meaningful playing time — which paid off big in 2019 — the reality of key 2019 injuries to important defensive players could have the same forward-moving and positive effect in 2020. The new recruits can also slide in and provide support to the starters.
There are undoubtedly some question marks at the linebacker position, but there’s enough talent and returning production that they should be able to find a noticeable groove by early October, when the season moves into its middle third.