Wisconsin Football: What You Need to Know About Badgers Notable Reserves in 2012

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The Wisconsin Badgers have dominated the Big Ten over the last couple years. The Badgers have been able to routinely replace personnel losses to graduation and the NFL in part because they have such quality reserves.  

Here's a look at some of the Badgers' notable reserves for the 2012 season.

James White

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As the backup to Heisman finalist Montee Ball, James White doesn't receive nearly as much hype. However, White is a very talented running back in his own right and has earned his share of accolades. He was the consensus Big Ten Freshman of the Year in 2010 and was Second Team All Big Ten.

Additionally, the Badgers star backup was named to the Doak Walker Award Watch List for 2012.  

White's success on the gridiron is no surprise, as he is related to NFL players Santana and Sinorice White. Additionally, one of his relatives played at the University of Minnesota.  

Melvin Gordon

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The Badgers have found their running back of the future in Melvin Gordon. The former Kenosha Bradford star broke out in the Badgers spring game, rushing 30 times for 159 yards and a touchdown. After a performance like that, Gordon is going to get his share of touches this season.  

Outside of football, Gordon does his fair share of volunteer work. He has served as a teacher's assistant, worked in a homeless shelter and coached youth football. As an active member of the community, it's no surprise that Gordon's major is community and nonprofit leadership.  

Konrad Zagzebski

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Konrad Zagzebski has had a tough start to his Badgers career. However, he is poised to factor into the rotation at defensive end this season and finally live up to his recruiting ranking. 

Interestingly, it would seem that Zagzebski was destined to play at a University of Wisconsin school. His father and several of his relatives played football at UW-Eau Claire.  

Outside of football, Zagzebski is a pretty busy guy. He enjoys fishing, skiing and traveling, and even founded a nonprofit organization with his sister. Athletes with a Heart, Zagzebski's nonprofit, raises money for various charitable causes, including the St. Claire Foundation.

Marcus Trotter and Michael Trotter

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Marcus Trotter and his twin brother Michael may prove to be the keys to the Badgers defense this year. As backups at linebacker and safety, respectively, the Trotter brothers are poised to see ample playing time again this year. Each figures to contribute on special teams and will see plenty of time during blowouts.  

Off the field, the Trotter brothers stay busy in the classroom. Both were Academic All-Big Ten in 2011, meaning that both had a grade point average over a 3.0. Their academic success isn't surprising, considering that both of their parents are doctors.  

Conclusion

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Not only are the aforementioned player’s important reserves, but they are also the future of the program. Each is a talented player at a premium position and will be essential for the Badgers' continued success moving forward.