The Wisconsin offense was a primary focus during Monday’s practice at Camp Randall. With less than three weeks until the Badgers season opener against LSU, the quarterback competition between Bart Houston and Alex Hornibrook was a hot topic.
“This is a huge week for us,” Chryst said. “This is the week where pictures have to be cleaned up a little bit.”
Houston and Hornibrook took two very different approaches in Monday’s practice to prove their spot as the starting quarterback. The two were splitting first team reps throughout practice. By our estimations, Hornibrook was more impressive.
Hornibrook started off playing poorly but was willing to make a few more risky throws compared to Houston, who played it safe throughout the practice. According to our unofficial stats, Hornibrook completed 10 of 16 throws for 1 touchdown and 1 interception, and Houston finished with no touchdowns and no interceptions, making 6 of 15 throws.
Chryst thought both quarterbacks made some good plays at practice. Of these next few practices he said, “You’ve got a chance to earn a role, earn a position.” Though as always, he reiterated that the team has a lot of work to do.
Other offensive players that had good practices were running backs Taiwan Deal and Dare Ogunbowale, who got the majority of touches with Corey Clement out. Deal had several 25+ yard runs, though he had to leave practice early due to a dinged up shoulder. Bradrick Shaw also showed some explosiveness with his chances, including a 3-yard touchdown run.
Robert Wheelwright was the biggest target for the receiving corps with the lone receiving touchdown, though he had a few dropped balls. George Rushing also made a few great catches including a 10-yard catch in a tight window.
The sentiment following practice is that with only 17 days of practice before the season opener at Lambeau Field, the Wisconsin Badgers have a lot to work on offensively and defensively to prepare for the LSU game and the difficult season ahead.
The injury report for Monday’s practice is as follows:
Limited: Corey Clement (leg), Jazz Peavy (chest)
Out: Keelon Brookins, Quintez Cephus, Jon Dietzen, T.J. Edwards, George Panos, Logan Schmidt, Mason Stokke, Nick Thomas.
Luke Schaetzel contributed to this post.