Wisconsin Football: Why Quarterback Russell Wilson Equals Big Ten Title

News has just surfaced out of Madison that former N.C. State quarterback Russell Wilson has now joined the Wisconsin Badgers. While some might consider this to be minor offseason news, one needs to consider the dynamics of the matter.

Wisconsin—just coming off one of the best seasons in school history—has lost a huge chunk of its high-scoring offense, including QB Scott Tolzien. By default, having a quarterback is necessary.

Unfortunately, a quarterback like Tolzein is not replaced easily. He departed from the Badgers last year as the school's all-time leader in pass efficiency and completion percentage, a Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Winner, and gave Wisconsin fans (by far the most important) a Rose Bowl appearance. Those are pretty high standards one must compete with.

Enter Russell Wilson. A dual-threat elite player that has left opposing ACC fans headed for the hills, the MLB prospect had a comparable season to Tolzien in two of the most important statistics of the game. Tolzien did earn his Golden Arm after limiting his passes to just six picks, but managed a meager 16 touchdowns. On the other hand, Wilson threw for 28 end zone scores.

In addition, both quarterbacks were difference-makers for their respective teams. Tolzien was known for being a game manager and letting the workhorses like running backs Montee Ball and John Clay get their jersey dirty.

In other words, Tolzien's scope of impact was confined to the passing game. What makes Wilson so precious in this department is his scrambling ability. When Tolzien would end up being sacked—he was knocked down to the turf 16 times last year—Wilson would elude the tackles and would rush for a first down pass for a score.

With Wilson's talent, he is certain to be Wisconsin's elixir for opponents next year. He is unfamiliar to those in Big Ten country, and will leave many a defensive coordinator pounding at their desks. Plus, Wisconsin's schedule sets up nicely for a repeat of last year's 11-win record. Their non-conference schedule is easily handled, except for a possible upset with the Oregon State Beavers. Once conference play begins, one will see how easy a route the Badgers have to get to Pasadena again.

Nebraska visits Wisconsin at home, and the Huskers will be adjusting to their new weekend competitors. Ohio State has to visit Camp Randall Stadium with a depleted and inexperienced squad. Earlier in the offseason these games pointed to a possible Big Ten championship, but when Russell Wilson shows off his talent, Wisconsin fans might be dreaming of a national title.