For the second straight season, the Wisconsin Badgers football team finds itself in a challenging position, as their veteran starting quarterback, Tyler Van Dyke, is sidelined due to injury. This time, it’s Braedyn Locke who’s being called to take the reins once again. Fans have seen this scenario before, and while it’s not ideal, it does offer a glimmer of hope. After all, Locke proved his mettle last season when he stepped in for an injured Tanner Mordecai. So, with Van Dyke on crutches and the future uncertain, it's time for a deeper dive into the quarterback situation in Madison.
Tyler Van Dyke's Injury Shakes Things Up
Van Dyke’s injury during the Badgers’ 42-10 loss to Alabama certainly wasn't in the playbook. He was knocked out of the game during the team’s very first drive, which put everyone on edge. As the camera panned to Van Dyke hobbling on crutches on the sidelines, fans knew it wasn’t good news. Head coach Luke Fickell's post-game interview didn’t offer much reassurance either, as he admitted, "I don't think it looks real good for us, or for him." Those words sent ripples through the Wisconsin fan base and left everyone wondering how long their star QB would be out.
What makes this injury even more impactful is how it shakes up the entire quarterback depth chart. Each player moves up a spot, and suddenly, the backup becomes the starter. It’s a shift that can change the trajectory of the season, depending on how things play out.
Enter Braedyn Locke – The New Starter
Now, stepping into the spotlight is redshirt sophomore Braedyn Locke. Locke isn’t new to this role, having filled in for an injured Tanner Mordecai last season. In fact, this kind of pressure situation is becoming familiar to him. When Locke took over for Van Dyke against Alabama, he completed 13 of 26 passes for 125 yards and one touchdown. While those numbers may not jump off the stat sheet, Locke has shown that he can rise to the occasion when needed.
If we rewind to last season, Locke’s most memorable performance came in a thrilling 25-21 comeback victory over Illinois on the road. That game wasn’t just a win; it was a defining moment for the young quarterback, proving he has the grit to lead his team to victory when it counts. In five games last season, Locke threw for 777 yards, five touchdowns, and just one interception—a solid performance for a backup turned starter.
A Texas native, Locke’s journey to Wisconsin took a unique path. He initially committed to Mississippi State before transferring to the Badgers in the spring of 2023. Standing 6 feet tall, Locke may not be the biggest QB on the field, but his leadership and ability to stay calm under pressure make him a formidable force. With Van Dyke’s status up in the air, it looks like it’s Locke’s team for the foreseeable future.
The Depth Behind Locke – Mabrey Mettauer Steps Up
With Locke taking the reins, true freshman Mabrey Mettauer has moved up to the backup role. And while that may make some fans nervous, Mettauer’s resume is nothing to scoff at. Hailing from The Woodlands High School in Texas, Mettauer holds records for career passing yards and single-season passing yards. This four-star recruit is no stranger to pressure situations, and at 6-foot-4, he brings both size and skill to the table.
Even head coach Luke Fickell is preparing for the possibility that Mettauer might see action sooner rather than later. "He's going to have to be ready," Fickell said. "The quarterback position is so unique. … Unfortunately, we could have to have a true freshman that's got to be ready to roll." Those words underscore the unpredictable nature of college football, where injuries can thrust even the youngest players into critical roles.
Mettauer’s commitment to the team was evident after the game when he posted on social media, offering prayers and well-wishes for Van Dyke’s recovery. It’s the kind of sportsmanship and team-first mentality that coaches love to see, especially from a freshman who could be thrust into the spotlight at any moment.
Cole LaCrue – Waiting in the Wings
Next on the depth chart is redshirt freshman Cole LaCrue, now in his second year with the Wisconsin program. While LaCrue didn’t see any playing time in 2023, he’s another quarterback with a promising future. Standing at 6-foot-1, LaCrue was a three-star recruit from Broomfield, Colorado, and led his high school team to a state championship in 2022.
In his high school career, LaCrue threw for over 6,000 yards and 57 touchdowns—impressive stats that caught the attention of the Badgers’ coaching staff. While it’s unclear how much action LaCrue will see this season, his skill set makes him a valuable asset in the quarterback room. If circumstances change, LaCrue could quickly find himself moving up the depth chart.
Milos Spasojevic – The Future Star?
At the bottom of the depth chart, for now, is true freshman Milos Spasojevic. Although he’s yet to see any action at the college level, Spasojevic is a name to watch for the future. Standing 6-foot-4, the Minnesota native started four years at quarterback for Minnetonka High School, where he totaled 57 touchdowns during his high school career. While Spasojevic may be in a developmental phase right now, his potential is undeniable.
Spasojevic's time may not come this season, but he’s certainly a prospect to keep an eye on as the Badgers look to build for the future. With a solid frame and a high football IQ, he could very well be Wisconsin's next star quarterback a few seasons down the line.
What’s Next for the Badgers?
With Van Dyke’s injury, Wisconsin faces a pivotal point in their season. Braedyn Locke now carries the weight of the team's success on his shoulders, but he’s proven in the past that he’s up for the challenge. Mettauer, LaCrue, and Spasojevic provide depth, but with the unpredictability of football, it’s anyone’s guess who might see playing time as the season progresses.
The Badgers’ next few games will be critical, as they try to adjust to life without Van Dyke. Locke’s experience, combined with Mettauer’s potential and the depth behind them, gives Wisconsin a fighting chance, but the road ahead won’t be easy.
Fans should buckle up because this season is shaping up to be a wild ride. Will Locke channel the magic from last season's comeback win, or will the Badgers’ offense struggle without their veteran leader? One thing is for sure: in college football, anything can happen, and the next man up might just become the next big star.
Key Points to Watch:
- Braedyn Locke’s performance: Can he continue to rise to the occasion?
- Mabrey Mettauer’s readiness: Will the freshman need to step in?
- Injury updates on Van Dyke: How long will he be out?
- Depth chart dynamics: Could we see LaCrue or Spasojevic in action?
Stay tuned—because this quarterback shuffle in Wisconsin could turn into one of the most compelling storylines of the season!
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