Spring game on tap
MADISON - Aside from all the news circling around an injured Curt Phillips, the Wisconsin football team completed it's final practice of the spring season Thursday afternoon inside Camp Randall Stadium.
Following the two-hour practice, head coach Bret Bielema made mention of the upcoming scoring format for Saturday's spring game.
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"We're going to spot the white team (defense) some points at the beginning of each half," Bielema said. "The only way they can score points is obviously turnovers and transition. There will also be field goal opportunities. So I 'm looking forward to Saturday and hopefully keep them all healthy."
As extra incentive to get out and watch the team at the spring game, Bielema also hinted at the potential of having the offense play in new jerseys that could be worn next fall.
"All the defensive players will be in White," Bielema said. "We're going to actually showcase our new jerseys that we'll possibly be wearing in the fall. It will be another little added flavor to the game."
Expect Jon Budmayr to run the No. 1 offense at the quarterback position. Though spring has been somewhat up and down for the redshirt sophomore, he seemed to be the signal caller the coaches trust the most to run the offense.
Freshman Joe Brennan, who's also had an up and down spring, will likely run the No. 2 offense against the No. 2 defense.
Bielema had some friendly words of advice aimed towards the young players set to participate in their first action in front of a sizeable crowd.
"Saturday's game, especially with some of our guys that we're trying to figure out if they can be in the competition next fall," Bielema said. "Approach the thing just like you have for every game. Go in and prepare yourself the night before. Wake up Saturday morning and try to make yourself better."
INJURY REPORT:
If there was one absolute certain throughout fall camp it's the fact that the wide receiver position has been extremely young without the presence of Nick Toon. As one of those young receivers, Marquis Mason had an opportunity to raise some eyebrows this spring.
Unfortunately, though, the freshman suffered a severe knee injury that will likely sideline him for a long period of time.
"We didn't think it was as severe as it was until they went in and MRI'd it," Bielema said. "He has an ACL surgery that will probably take place after finals. He'll be down for anytime next year."
-Both Jordan Kohout and Eriks Briedis will sit out Saturday's spring game with concussions. Expect Ethan Hemer and Beau Allen to get plenty of reps in Kohout's absence.
-Tight end Jacob Pedersen, who rolled his ankle during last Saturday's scrimmage, will most likely miss the spring game, though Bielema didn't close the door completely.
"I don't know," he said. "He may. There's a chance."
-Senior linebacker Kevin Claxton has practiced all week after missing all of last week with a rib injury. He should be able to play come Saturday afternoon.
Overall, Bielema has been impressed with the toughness his guys have shown throughout camp.
"We've got Shelton Johnson playing with a broken hand," Bielema said. "All the tight ends, Brian Wozniak, Pedersen, Sherard Cadogan and Jake Byrne have played hurt. It's a good testament to what they're all about."
UP NEXT:
UW will host the annual spring game inside Camp Randall Stadium starting at 1:00 p.m. (ct). Prior to the game, the football program will participate in the annual Badger Sports' Kids Fair inside the McClain Center. The spring game will cost $5, but the Kids fair is free to the public.