For the second consecutive season against Alabama, Wisconsin could be down its starting quarterback.
A year ago, starter Tyler Van Dyke suffered a season-ending injury in the first quarter against the Crimson Tide in a game Alabama ultimately routed the Badgers 42-10. Van Dyke likely wouldn't have made much of a difference as the Tide physically overwhelmed the Badgers on both lines of scrimmage, but they certainly would have preferred having their starter.
It looks like they're going to be down their starting QB this season before the game even kicks off.
Maryland transfer Billy Edwards Jr. suffered a knee injury in Wisconsin's 17-0 season-opening win over Miami (OH). He missed last week's win over Middle Tennessee State as a result, and with Big Ten play on deck next week, it makes sense that the Badgers would be cautious with him. According to ESPN's Pete Thamel, Edwards is not expected to play against Alabama:
Sources: Wisconsin quarterback Billy Edwards Jr. is unlikely to play at No. 19 Alabama on Saturday. He’ll travel with the team and plans to warm up, but he faces long odds to play this week. He sprained his knee against Miami University in the opener and is week-to-week. pic.twitter.com/ikOqp8t9mL
— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) September 11, 2025
Wisconsin feels its better equipped to handle a QB injury this season
Wisconsin didn't want a potential QB injury this season to completely derail things the way Van Dyke's injury did a year ago. That's why they aggressively pursued multiple quarterbacks in the Transfer Portal this offseason. Along with Edwards, Wisconsin landed Danny O'Neil from San Diego State in the portal.
O'Neil started 11 games for the Aztecs a season ago before coming to Madison. He'll get the start against the Crimson Tide if Edwards is unable to go. After an uneven performance off the bench against Miami (OH) in Week 1, O'Neil had a strong game last week against MTSU as the starter. He completed 23-of-27 passes for 283 yards and three touchdowns with one interception.
O'Neil does have some mobility, which will test Alabama's defensive discipline. Under Kane Wommack, Alabama has struggled mightily to contain running quarterbacks. I'm sure getting him outside the pocket will be a big part of the Wisconsin game plan.
Saturday in Bryant-Denny will be O'Neil's first start against a Power-4 conference opponent. His only experience vs. a ranked opponent came last season against Boise State. O'Neil went 14-of-30 for 155 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions in a 56-24 loss to the Broncos.
Alabama will look to get as much heat on the Wisconsin QB as they can. It has been a major point of emphasis for Wommack this week who, despite the shutout of UL Monroe last week, was still left wanting more out of his defense.