Wisconsin QB Billy Edwards Reportedly Set to Miss Alabama Game with Knee Injury

Wisconsin quarterback Billy Edwards Jr. "faces long odds" of suiting up Saturday against No. 19 Alabama, according to ESPN's Pete Thamel.

A sprained knee kept Edwards out for the Badgers' 42-10 win over Middle Tennessee. Thamel reported he's still considered week-to-week.

The graduate transfer was injured in the second quarter of his team's opening game against Miami (Ohio). That elevated Danny O'Neil to the starting role.

O'Neil went 12-of-19 for 120 yards, one touchdown and an interception in relief of Edwards in the 17-0 shutout of the RedHawks. He followed up with 283 passing yards, three touchdowns and an interception as Wisconsin cruised past the Blue Raiders.

Both quarterbacks transferred in ahead of the 2025 season.

Edwards spent three years at Maryland and became the full-time starter in 2024. He finished with 2,881 yards, 15 touchdowns and nine interceptions through the air. As a true freshman at San Diego State, O'Neil threw for 2,181 yards, 12 touchdowns and six picks.

Alabama is no longer the dominant force it was under legendary coach Nick Saban. The Crimson Tide went 9-4 in Kalen DeBoer's first season and opened 2025 with a 31-17 loss at the hands of Florida State.

Still, Bama is a heavy favorite over at home in Week 3, and the odds of an upset will be slimmer if Wisconsin is again relying on its backup quarterback.