UPDATE: In a critical move, the Wisconsin Badgers have confirmed that Hunter Simmons will start at quarterback against Ohio State on October 21, 2023. This marks Simmons’ third consecutive start, stepping in after a turbulent season for the Badgers’ offense.
Simmons, who transferred from Southern Illinois, began the season as the team’s third-string quarterback. He has emerged as a vital player after injuries sidelined both Billy Edwards Jr. and Danny O’Neil. Edwards suffered a knee injury during the season opener against Miami, where he completed 7 of 16 passes for 113 yards before leaving the game. O’Neil filled in, leading Wisconsin to a narrow 17-10 victory and showcasing potential with a strong performance against Middle Tennessee State, throwing 23 of 27 for 283 yards and three touchdowns.
However, the Badgers’ offense sputtered during back-to-back losses to Alabama and Maryland, prompting Coach Luke Fickell to bench O’Neil. In those critical games, O’Neil managed just 25 of 39 passes for 237 yards, with only one touchdown against three interceptions. This prompted a shift in strategy, with Simmons stepping up under pressure, compiling 33 of 59 for 329 yards, one touchdown, and three interceptions in recent outings.
Fickell, who is 15-17 during his tenure at Wisconsin, faces mounting pressure as the Badgers struggle in Big Ten competition, currently holding an 8-13 record. With Simmons taking the helm against a formidable Ohio State team, the stakes could not be higher.
There is no set timeline for Edwards’ return, raising the stakes even further for Simmons as he prepares to face one of college football’s toughest opponents. The Badgers have not beaten Ohio State in over a decade, and with playoff aspirations dwindling, Simmons’ performance could determine both his future and Fickell’s job security.
As fans and analysts await kickoff, all eyes will be on Simmons to see if he can lead the Badgers to a much-needed victory. Updates will follow as game day approaches, making this a must-watch matchup.
