Why Wisconsin QB Tanner Mordecai is the Missing Piece of the Puzzle

Could Tanner Mordecai be the answer at QB for UW?

Ever since the Russell Wilson and Scott Tolzien seasons over a decade ago, Wisconsin football fans have longed for more than a game-managing quarterback under center. I also like to include 2019 Jack Coan in this group, but I digress.

The BadgerManiac did a compelling case study dating back to 2003 that charted passing efficiency numbers, TD/INT ratio, and yards per attempt that suggest UW QB play hasn’t been as terrible as the man at the bar would have you believe — and overall, I agree with his assessment. Production is all relative to the system they’re playing in and who you’re comparing them to.

However, Wisconsin will need more from their QB1 to elevate the program in a more pass-happy ‘dairy raid’ offense under Phil Longo, one of the nation’s most accomplished offensive coordinators.

Last season, the Badgers finished No. 91 in the country in total offense (363.6 yards per game) and No. 77 in scoring offense (26.3 points) — but there is one major reason Wisconsin football fans should feel confident in a quick turnaround — the missing piece of the puzzle if you will — SMU transfer Tanner Mordecai.

Why Tanner Mordecai Could Be the Badgers Missing Piece of the Puzzle 

Turnovers can be a killer when you’re a low-possession team like UW has traditionally been. The running game also takes a hit when the offense can’t push the ball downfield effectively.