WATCH: A.J. Blazek, Wisconsin Offensive Linemen Address the Media at Fall Camp
PLATTEVILLE, Wis. — Wisconsin offensive line coach A.J. Blazek addressed the media following Monday’s fall camp practice. The Badgers return three starters on their offensive line — junior guard Joe Brunner, senior tackle Riley Mahlman, and senior center Jake Renfro.
UW was dealt a tough blow in spring ball when starting left tackle and sophomore Kevin Heywood went down with a season-ending ACL injury. Central Michigan transfer Davis Heinzen was added to the fold in the spring and is expected to take Heywood’s place in 2025. UW is also having a battle at right guard where senior J.P. Benzschawel, redshirt freshman Emerson Mandell, senior Kerry Kodanko, and redshirt freshman Colin Cubberly have all taken first-team reps throughout fall camp.
Blazek is entering his second year at Wisconsin. A former offensive lineman for Iowa, Blazek led the Badgers to some high marks in 2024, including a top 10 ranking in sacks allowed per game (1.0) and sack percentage (3.15%). Under first-year offensive coordinator Jeff Grimes, Blazek and the offensive line hope to improve upon the team’s 4.4 yards per carry average, which ranked No. 60 in FBS last season.
