Here are three offensive players for the Badgers who could play an important role in Wisconsin’s success against Purdue this weekend:
1) Jonathan Taylor, RB
In two career games against Purdue, Taylor has rushed for 219 yards on 30 carries as a freshman and last year rushed for a career-high 321 yards on 33 carries in Wisconsin’s win over the Boilermakers. Taylor certainly has had success against Purdue and that should continue on Saturday. Purdue will load the box against Wisconsin but due to Taylor’s patience and vision, it will be difficult for them to consistently tackle him behind the line of scrimmage. Taylor’s ability to consistently pick up positive yards should help Wisconsin get into an offensive rhythm at Camp Randall.
2) Jack Coan QB
Coan has thrown eight touchdown passes over the last six games compared to throwing two interceptions over that same stretch. Coan, at times against Nebraska, didn’t place the football in the right place for his intended target to make the catch. Although Coan did not have any passes intercepted, he will still need to improve upon his decision making. Considering, Purdue over conference play has registered six interceptions, which is tied for fourth in the league. Not to mention, Purdue has picked off five passes in four of their last five games.
3) Nakia Watson, RB
Watson didn’t register a carry against Ohio State, but in the last two games against Iowa and Nebraska, he has carried the football a total of 14 times for 68 yards. Taylor will get the bulk of the carries against Purdue, but that should allow for Watson to have success when he gets a chance. Watson has been carrying the football effectively over the last two games. Watson’s ability to help spell Taylor throughout the game against Purdue will help Taylor have the success he’s capable of having against the Boilermakers.