As the Badgers prepared for their first road test of the season against Washington State, Luke Fickell spoke with reporters on Monday.
The head coach covered a wide range of subjects, such as the suspension of Jordan Turner, problems with missed tackles, getting ready for the Cougars’ offense, and much more.
Key insights compiled by BadgerBlitz.com:
Cameron Ward’s defense
When Wisconsin’s defense takes on Cameron Ward, the quarterback for the Cougars, on Saturday, they have a difficult task ahead of them. Ward is coming off a standout performance in Week 1 against Colorado State, where he completed 75.5 percent of his passes for 451 yards and three touchdowns while also gaining 40 yards and a touchdown on the ground. Ward was not quite as dynamic against the Badgers last year, but he still managed the Cougars’ offense effectively enough to upset Wisconsin in Madison. His ability to make a bed with his legs is one of his distinguishing features.
“Compared to game one, I do not think he ran as much last year. He was aggressive, and that was the situation they were in. I saw the game against Washington State last year, and it was evident. He is different in a few ways. The one thing that stands out to me the most is his aggressive style of running the football.”
It will be a challenge for the Badgers defense to slow down Ward, who seems to have stepped it up in his second season at Washington State.
Taking lessons from last season’s defeat
Wisconsin’s home game against Washington State the previous season was a nightmare. They were defeated by three points and committed a number of mind-numbing errors, but the two fumbles stood out the most because they occurred at the most inconvenient times. Despite not being in town, Fickell claims the staff has taken some time to review last year’s match.
“You studied the previous year as well, as there are still many employees.” There are many similarities and similar things between a lot of the things you are looking at, at least from an offensive standpoint, but your main focus is on personnel and tendencies. However, I do not think we are overstating the circumstances from the previous year. The guys that were present, in my opinion, are aware of and comprehend that. There’s a lot of things for us to focus on: our first road trip, our first road challenge, and obviously a great challenge for us. No matter what, this is one of those games that we’ve talked about how to finish. The emphasis on finishing will be pounded the entire week.”
Discussing his approach to away games compared to home games, Fickell emphasized the importance of preparation, particularly in terms of rest and discipline.
He stressed the need to avoid turnovers, run the ball effectively, and minimize penalties when playing on the road, noting that these factors are crucial for success. Regarding the absence of starting linebacker Jordan Turner due to ejection, Fickell praised Jake Chaney’s performance in Week 1 and expressed confidence in his ability to step up, while also highlighting the team’s need for depth.
He acknowledged tackling issues from the previous game and emphasized the importance of playing under control while maintaining effort and energy. Fickell also discussed the challenges posed by Washington State’s fast-paced offense and the adjustments the defense needs to make. The addition of tight end Mike Cerniglia Jr. to the roster was mentioned as providing depth to the team. Fickell expressed frustration over cornerback Michael Mack’s waiver denial and hinted at dissatisfaction with the process.
He emphasized the importance of teamwork with the acronym T.E.A.M. displayed on his vest, highlighting the collective effort required for success. Fickell addressed linebacker Kamo’i Latu’s performance and the need for him to maintain control and focus.
He briefly discussed quarterback Tanner Mordecai’s interceptions, noting the need for improvement but also highlighting Mordecai’s positive response in tackling after the turnovers.