College Football Preview: 17. Wisconsin Badgers

17. Wisconsin Badgers Returning Starters: 11 Returning Star: RB Montee Ball Key Loss: QB Russell Wilson Player to Watch: WR Jared Abbrederis Few teams are more hungry to win a BCS bowl than this Badger team who has lost two straight Rose Bowls by heartbreaking amounts. Once more it appears the Badgers will have a new quarterback and this one is pretty similar to last year's one year wonder, Russell Wilson. The Badgers welcome in junior Danny O'Brien a transfer from Maryland. O'Brien won ACC Rookie of the Year in 2010 but had a nightmare of a sophomore season. O'Brien is athletic but prefers to stay in the pocket. He has a big arm and can be pretty accurate also. Though sophomore Joe Brennan and freshman Joel Stave should put up a big fight. Though once more Bret Bielema's squad shouldn't be passing too much thanks to the talent in this backfield. All-American and Heisman finalist Montee Ball made a surprising decision to return for his senior season. After a season in which Ball tied Barry Sanders single-season touchdown record expectations are high to say the least. Ball isn't a burner but has okay speed and is elusive. Also back is junior James White who should get carries. White was often forgotten about last season but is more talented than most team's starters. Gone is 2011 leading receiver Nick Toon who would help O'Brien feel more comfortable with the team but the receiving corps is still strong. Junior Jared Abbrederis could be O'Brien's top option this season. Look for him to play a much bigger role. Junior tight end Jacob Pedersen is the most talented at his position in the Big Ten and is a safety blanket for O'Brien. Few offensive lines could lose two All-Americans and still be this good. Junior Travis Frederick and senior Ricky Wagner could have All Big Ten type seasons. The defensive line is an issue. Senior end Bredan Kelly is this team's top pass rusher. Junior Beau Allen has loads of potential. Back are linebackers Chris Borland and Mike Taylor which makes this position one of the top in the conference. Both led the Big Ten in tackles and shoukd continue to make plays. Junior A.J. Fenton should start alongside them. This secondary lost shutdown corner Antonio Fenelus but is still good. Senior Marcus Cromartie will lead the squad in interceptions and Devin Smith's return should help significantly. Heisman Hopeful: Montee Ball Big Ten Rank: 3rd