NCAAF Blog Post

Wisconsin Football: Freshman QB Stave to Start vs. UTEP

NCAAF, Team News / Analysis, Player News / Analysis, Wisconsin Badgers, Danny O'Brien, Joel Stave, Joel Steve

Freshman QB Stave to Start for Wisconsin vs. UTEP

9/21/12 in NCAAF | Tyler_Waddell | 293 respect

Despite earlier reports that Wisconsin quarterback Danny O'Brien would start for the Badgers this Saturday against UTEP, coach Brett Bielema has announced that freshman Joel Stave has been given the nod instead. Sep 15, 2012; Madison, WI, USA; Wisconsin Badgers quarterback Joel Stave (2) signals during the fourth quarter against the Utah State Aggies at Camp Randall Stadium. Wisconsin defeated Utah State, 16-14. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

Sep 15, 2012; Madison, WI, USA; Wisconsin Badgers quarterback Joel Stave (2) signals during the fourth quarter against the Utah State Aggies at Camp Randall Stadium. Wisconsin defeated Utah State, 16-14. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

Bielema told program boosters of the decision Wednesday night, according to the Wisconsin State Journal.

Stave, who replaced O'Brien at halftime during last week's close 16-14 win over Utah State. He wasn't very impressive in his debut, but the Badgers outscored the Aggies 13-0 in the second half.

Last season with Maryland, O'Brien was replaced just a few games in by then sophomore C.J. Brown. Many were hoping he'd progress and would be a better fit in the Badgers' offensive scheme, but unfortunately that hasn't been the case.

O'Brien threw for 454 yards and three touchdowns — with three turnovers — and Wisconsin scored just 49 points through the first three games after averaging 44.1 last season.

Follow @Tyler_Waddell on Twitter

leave comment