Here are three defensive players for the Badgers who could play an important role in Wisconsin’s success against Oregon in the Rose Bowl Game:
1. Chris Orr MLB
When Orr left the game against Ohio State in the Big Ten Championship game it was clear to see that one of Wisconsin’s leaders on the defensive side of the football was missing. Orr will play against Oregon and outside of his ability to make plays for Wisconsin’s defense, he’ll also provide the defensive leadership the Badgers need in order to have success. Orr will be counted on to help create pressure up the middle and be ready to make plays in pass coverage too. Orr’s ability to impact the game in a multitude of ways will go a long way in helping determine how the game goes for Wisconsin.
2. Zack Baun OLB
Baun who made countless All-American teams will need to provide the pressure against Justin Herbert and try and make him feel uncomfortable in the pocket. Oregon’s offensive line has only given up 23 sacks this season, which will make it difficult for Baun to be able to consistently apply pressure in the backfield. Making it important that when he does get his chance of sacking Herbert that he does as there won’t be many opportunities. If Wisconsin can force Oregon to play behind the chains it could allow for the Badgers to have short defensive drives.
3. Isaiahh Loudermilk DE
In order for Orr and Baun to have an impact in creating pressure against Herbert in the backfield, it will begin with Loudermilk and the rest of Wisconsin’s defensive line creating lanes for them to create that pressure. Although Loudermilk’s play along the defensive line doesn’t always show up in the box score he has registered a combined 11 tackles over the Badgers last three games, in addition, to registering 1.5 sacks over that time span too and he forced a fumble against Ohio State. Loudermilk’s ability to continue to make those types of plays for Wisconsin’s defense will help slow an Oregon offense that’s averaging 450.7 yards of total offense a game.