Wisconsin Football: What You Need to Know About Badgers' WR Jared Abbrederis

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Jared Abbrederis is the Wisconsin Badgers top returning wide receiver.  

A former walk-on, Abbrederis dominated during the 2011 season. He contributed mightily to the Badgers' march to the Rose Bowl, and he's poised to excel again in 2012.

As Abbrederis steps into the spotlight in 2012, here's everything one needs to know about him. 

He Can Play

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Jared Abbrederis had a stellar season in 2011.  The junior wide receiver caught 55 balls for 933 yards and eight touchdowns, leading the team in receiving yards and being named Honorable Mention All-Big Ten at wide receiver. 

Abbrederis is a dominant return man as well, averaging over 15 yards per punt return and over 24 yards per kick return. His 15.8 yards per punt return were the third best in the nation and the second-best average in Wisconsin history. As a result, Sports Illustrated named him a third team All-American at punt returner.          

2012 is going to be an even better year for Jared Abbrederis. Nick Toon is in the NFL, and Abbrederis will be the primary focus in the passing game. Look for Abbrederis to catch over 60 balls for 1,000 yards and 10 touchdowns.

He Dominated in High School

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Jared Abbrederis's high school accolades are also very impressive. A multi-sport athlete, Abbrederis played football, ran track and wrestled for Wautoma High School. Wautoma won state championships in football as well as track and field during Abbrederis's tenure.  

The Badgers receiver excelled on the football field being named the Wisconsin Football Coaches Association first-team All-State quarterback, conference player of the year and first team All-Conference at quarterback and defensive back as a senior. Abbrederis also dominated on the track, being named the Gatorade Track Athlete of the Year and a three-time state champion in the hurdles.  

As great as Abbrederis was at track and football in high school, he credits wrestling with giving him the mindset necessary to succeed at Wisconsin. Wrestling forced him to be mentally tough and allowed him to continue to work hard even as a walk-on. 

Personal Life

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Off the field, Jared Abbrederis is a pretty normal guy. He enjoys the outdoors, particularly hunting and fishing, and like any college student, he enjoys hanging out with his friends.    

A member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes in high school, Abbrederis is also a very religious man, as his Twitter and Facebook pages make multiple references to his faith.

Also, Abbrederis actually met his wife at bible study, and they were recently married in May.

Conclusion

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Jared Abbrederis is a talented player who works extremely hard. A natural athlete, Abbrederis excelled in high school and has continued his success on the gridiron at Wisconsin.