College Football

UW’s O-Line showing improvement in pass-pro

UW’s O-Line showing improvement in pass-pro

Madison, Wis. – It’s no secret that Wisconsin’s offense struggled mightily in 2021. While quarterback Graham Mertz’s play didn’t help matters, you could argue that the offensive line’s struggles in pass protection also played a role in the dysfunction. 

According to Pro Football Focus, Wisconsin’s offensive line graded out as the No. 98 pass-blocking unit in the country last season (55.5).

When you consider that there are only 130 division one programs, that’s a pretty glaring issue for a team that prides itself on offensive line play.

To rectify their shortcomings, the Badgers coaching staff moved All-Big Ten honorable mention right guard Jack Nelson out to left tackle this offseason, a more natural position for the former four-star recruit.

In a corresponding move, Bob Bostad shifted multi-year starter Tyler Beach inside to left guard – a switch that allowed the Wisconsin native to play in a phone booth rather than in space.

Let’s unpack how those decisions have played out for Wisconsin thus far:

Wisconsin’s blind-side through 2 games

New offensive Line coach Bob Bostad, works with his players the during the University of Wisconsin spring football practice at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison on Thursday.
Uw Spring Football Practice 4354

Albeit a small sample size, UW’s re-tooled offensive line under coach Bostad hasn’t dominated as a run-blocking unit, at least not by Wisconsin’s standards.

According to Pro Football Focus, Wisconsin’s offensive line has graded out as the 30th best run-blocking unit in division one so far.

This development is disappointing but not unexpected. The Badgers’ O-line traditionally takes a few weeks to gel before hitting its collective stride as the season wears on.

However, UW has looked especially good in pass protection through the Badgers’ first two games, grading out as the 18th-best pass-blocking unit in the country – a refreshing change of pace from…

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