Paul Chryst details how Graham Mertz has grown as a leader

by:Austin Brezina07/27/22

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Speaking during Big Ten media days, Wisconsin coach Paul Chryst spoke about the growth he’s seen in quarterback Graham Mertz as a leader. Mertz is entering his fourth year with Wisconsin as a redshirt junior, coming off a season with a less-than-stellar offensive production as a starter. Last season, Mertz finished with 1,958 yards and 10 touchdowns with 11 interceptions.

Wisconsin’s offense doesn’t call on Mertz to lead with his arm often, running the ball on 567 plays compared to just 300 passing attempts all season. However, Chryst highlighted his growth throughout the offseason as a leader — something that the Badgers hope will translate into a great 2022 season. Despite a run-heavy offense, Mertz helped lead the team to a 9-4 season last year with a 6-3 record in Big Ten Conference play.

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Paul Chryst on Graham Mertz growing as a leader

When asked about Mertz’s progress as a leader during the offseason, Chryst explained exactly what he’d seen from his quarterback.

“I’ve appreciated the way that Graham has approached this off-season, coming back in the winter and spring and summer,” said Chryst. “Last year he was a leader in many ways. He’s continued to do that. He’s taking ownership of the things that he needs to do and does a great job of communicating, working with the rest of our players. It’s about all of us, right?

“I think a good leader shows that you’ve got to lead by example but also how can you help others be the best they can be? He’s trying to do that, and I’ve seen him do that. That, as a coach, you appreciate.”

This season, Mertz will pair with breakout running back Braelon Allen as one of the most exciting teams in the Big Ten. Allen impressed in his freshman debut last year with 1,268 yards rushing and 12 touchdowns as he looks to take the next step as a sophomore this season.

Mertz’s leadership will be one of the biggest ways he can impact the team as Wisconsin’s pass offense continues to be limited in usage compared to the running game. In the past ten seasons, the Badgers have averaged over 200 yards passing per game in a season just two times.