With Rutgers and Maryland getting ready to switch to the Big Ten Conference in 2014, the move could bode well for the Wisconsin Badgers this upcoming season. Finishing 9-4 and second in the Leaders Division, they very well could push themselves into another Big Ten Conference Championship game appearance with Ohio State switching divisions.
In order to do that, these are the three key players that will pace the Badgers towards their run to Indianapolis in 2014.
Melvin Gordon - Running Back
They sure love to churn out running backs over in Badger country.
Melvin Gordon jumped on the scene as a true sophomore in 2013 and never looked back. Clearly one of the best running backs in the country, 2014 could be a deciding year in terms of his draft position. Although he could've opted for the NFL last season, he decided to stick it out for another go.
Gordon finished 2013 with over 200 rushing attempts for 1609 yards and 12 touchdowns. He is also featured as a first team All-American according to Phil Steele. Needless to say, defenses will need to scheme around this talented back.
Sojourn Shelton - Defensive Back
As a true freshman in 2013, Sojourn Shelton had a fairly decent season for the Badgers. With the defense facing a lot of losses and opportunities for younger players to step up, 2014 could be a nice year for a seasoned youngster like Shelton to emerge as a defensive leader.
Leading the team in interceptions a year ago, it is highly likely that he can do it again in 2014. Shelton finished 2013 with 30 total tackles, four interceptions and four pass deflections.
Tanner McEvoy - Quarterback
The last time there has been excitement around a quarterback? Russell Wilson, maybe? Either way, there is considerable hype surrounding this one.
Although Tanner McEvoy is by far not guaranteed a starting position, he could be a key player for Wisconsin down the road in 2014. With a full year to learn the playbook under his belt, he could be the upset choice to win a starting quarterback position this fall. If so, and the hype is real, we could be talking about a really potent Badger offense this season.
This is the play that has everyone talking: