Key Takeaways from Wisconsin Badgers' 31-22 Loss to Washington State

The Wisconsin Badgers suffered their first loss under new coach Luke Fickell against the Washington State Cougars this past Saturday, September 9th.

Fumbling Away The Game: Wisconsin's  Doomed Battle

It's a puzzling narrative: the Wisconsin Badgers, kicking off the Luke Fickell era with a solid 38-17 win against the Buffalo Bulls, only to falter in Week 2 with a disheartening 31-22 loss to the Washington State Cougars. Despite a momentary resurgence in the game, it's evident that a pattern of slow starts is undermining their potential.

 Tanner Mordecai, who has shown promise in previous games, faced relentless pressure from the Cougars' defense, making it difficult to establish a passing game. Despite a momentary third-quarter resurgence. Wisconsin's persistent issue of slow starts and turnovers, lack of consistent discipline, and a lackluster offense underscore a need for urgent recalibration if they hope to fulfill the promise of the Fickell era.

Sep 9, 2023; Pullman, Washington, USA; Wisconsin Badgers quarterback Tanner Mordecai (8) throws a pass against the Washington State Cougars in the first half at Gesa Field at Martin Stadium / © James Snook-USA TODAY Sports

Mordecai's Battle Against the Cougars

In a game marred by turnovers and missed opportunities, Wisconsin Badgers' quarterback Tanner Mordecai still had some superb moments. 

While he did fumble twice and struggled against relentless pressure from Washington State's Ron Stone Jr., who managed two sacks including a pivotal strip-sack turned touchdown, Mordecai showcased undeniable resilience. Despite the challenges, including an offensive line that often left him vulnerable, the sixth-year senior threw for 278 yards and a touchdown, completing 25 of his 40 passes. His performance was dotted with flashes of brilliance, such as his impressive downfield connections, culminating in a touchdown pass to Skyler Bell. Although his efforts couldn't erase early mistakes or secure a win against the Cougars, Mordecai's second-half resurgence provided a glimmer of hope for the Badgers, setting the stage for what could be a more balanced and potent offensive approach in the future.

Discipline: Where's The Consistency?

Discipline, or the lack thereof, played an outsized role in the Badgers' defeat. Despite head coach Luke Fickell's offseason sermons on the importance of discipline, Saturday's game told a different story. With five penalties, including a significant 15-yard penalty, the Badgers allowed the Cougars to capitalize on their errors. This lapse in mental preparation and focus was evident across the field, most noticeably on the defensive end where miscommunications led to open receivers and a slippery opposition quarterback.

Phil Longo's Offense: A Work in Progress

Offensive Coordinator Phil Longo's first season in Wisconsin has been a period of adjustment. His Air Raid attack needs some finetuning, especially when it comes to meshing the new scheme with the capabilities of existing players on the roster. The clash of styles was apparent in the Badgers' game against the Cougars, suggesting that there's a lot more work to be done.

Sep 9, 2023; Pullman, Washington, USA; Wisconsin Badgers quarterback Tanner Mordecai (8) throws a pass against the Washington State Cougars in the first half at Gesa Field at Martin Stadium / © James Snook-USA TODAY Sports

Week 3: Time for a Reckoning

With Week 3 on the horizon against the Georgia Southern Eagles, the Badgers are faced with tough questions that demand immediate answers. The need for a more integrated approach to the game is evident. Will the Badgers bounce back, or will the rebuilding phase under a new staff stretch further than originally anticipated?