LSU vs. Wisconsin Week #1 Preview and Prediction
By Jarred Smith
Aug 31, 2013; Madison, WI, USA; Wisconsin Badgers offensive lineman Tyler Marz (61) during the game against the Massachusetts Minutemen at Camp Randall Stadium. Wisconsin won 45-0. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
LSU’s Front 7 vs Wisconsin’s O-Line
I just finished talking about the veteran laden defense that the Tigers will be showcasing this weekend, so fittingly we now can look at the beef on the offensive line for the Badgers.
The Big Ten is known for big offensive lineman and power running games. Wisconsin might as well be O-Line University.
This is a group that over the past few seasons has helped set the NCAA record for rushing yards between two teammates for backs like Melvin Gordon and James White (2013) as well as Melvin Gordon and Corey Clement (2014).
Wisconsin struggled uncharacteristically at times last season to rush the ball, but those issues seem to be in the past as the Badgers are extremely deep along the offensive line.
LT Ryan Ramczyk is a transfer from UW-Stevens Point and LG Dan Voltz started seven games at center in 2015. Center Michael Dieter started six games at that position last season, RG Beau Benzschawel started 6 games at right tackle before moving to guard for the final two games. RT Jake Maxwell started three games at right tackle last season.
While this starting combination is new for the Badgers, expect this group to be ready for a fierce LSU pass rush. If anything is a sure thing for Wisconsin, it is the big men up front.
Next: Final Prediction