Alabama late-hit knocks Badgers QB Tyler Van Dyke out of game

Van Dyke was sidelined on Wisconsin's first drive of the game.

Sep 7, 2024; Madison, Wisconsin, USA; Wisconsin Badgers quarterback Tyler Van Dyke (10) throws a pass during the second quarter against the South Dakota Coyotes at Camp Randall Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images / Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images

Wisconsin's upset bid over Alabama got off on the wrong foot. On the first drive of the game starting QB Tyler Van Dyke was hit late by an Alamaba defender, sending him to the locker room.

Tyler Van Dyke is being looked at on the sideline after this hit pic.twitter.com/vxMl1OYpSM

— FOX College Football (@CFBONFOX) September 14, 2024

It looked like a leg injury for Van Dyke, who was not able to put much weight on his lower half. He was in a quarterback battle with Braedyn Locke all offseason and the Badgers will now be forced to rely on the redshirt sophomore.

Locke started three games last season, completing 50% of his passes for 777 yards, five touchdowns and one interception. He will now be forced into action against the No. 4-ranked team in the country.

Wisconsin was still able to take advantage of Van Dyke's 5-5 star throwing the football, and they added a field goal on the first drive, jumping out to a 3-0 lead.