The Badgers are likely getting a massive offensive boost this week when they face Wake Forest in Wednesday’s Duke’s Mayo Bowl.
In today’s press conference, Wisconsin head coach Paul Chryst mentioned that freshman RB Jalen Berger, who missed the last two Badger contests due to COVID-19, practiced today with the team.
A Big Ten rule change surrounding the COVID-19 timeline could be what allows Berger to play. Although it is unclear exactly when the freshman tested positive, it was some point during Iowa week. The previous conference rule was that players with a positive test could not play in game action until 21-days after that positive result, with no exceptions. That has now changed to a 17-day period. The rule was likely changed for Ohio State, to allow the Buckeyes to have more of a full roster when they take on Clemson in the CFP semifinal on New Year’s Day.
Chryst mentioned last week that the rule change from a 21-day period to a 17-day period should help Berger play against Wake Forest on Wednesday:
Chryst said the Big Ten's new 17-day sit out rule for a positive COVID test should help RB Jalen Berger be available for the bowl game.
— Zach Heilprin (@ZachHeilprin) December 21, 2020
The freshman RB has led Wisconsin’s ground game when he has seen the field. Averaging nearly six yards per carry, expect Berger to once again lead the way in the Badger backfield if he can in fact suit up. All signs from the coaching staff point to him playing this Wednesday.