Head coach Paul Chryst named senior Bart Houston as the starting quarterback for the Badgers going into the season opener against LSU on Sept. 3.
UW Wisconsin’s director of video services, Chris Hall, spoke with Chryst Thurs. about his decision to name Houston as the starting quarterback over sophomore Alex Hornibrook.
“One of our key goals was to make sure both were ready to play this season and, not just play, to be able to win with them playing, and I thought they both did that,” Chryst said to Hall.
The starting quarterback competition has been a topic of interest for the Badgers since former starting quarterback Joel Stave graduated and was signed by the Minnesota Vikings as an undrafted free agent.
Of the two competing quarterbacks, Houston had more experience than Hornibrook, playing for an injured Stave last year against Illinois in a game where the Badgers would go on to beat Illinois 24-13. Houston completed 22 of 33 passes for two touchdowns and two interceptions.
Houston had consistent spring and fall camps that ultimately led him to win the starting job.
“Bart did everything that he needed to do and earned the right to get the start,” Chryst said.
The Badgers will now be able to more efficiently prepare for the season opener at Lambeau Field. That being said, Chryst stressed that both his two quarterbacks and his team have a way to go in preparation for the regular season. At least now, one question on many Badger football fans’ minds has been answered.