Northwestern’s David Braun impressed by Wisconsin’s ‘terrifying passing attack’

David Braun began his tenure as Northwestern’s head coach quite unceremoniously, receiving the interim title after Pat Fitzgerald was fired before last season. Despite remarkably low expectations, Braun led the Wildcats to an 8-5 record and now has a five-year contract as the program’s full-time head coach.

Before this week’s matchup with the Badgers, Braun was impressed with Wisconsin’s improved passing attack and offensive production with quarterback Braedyn Locke replacing injured starter Tyler Van Dyke.

“They are definitely a group that has found their groove. Well-coached, fearsome passing attack. “They’re finding ways to run the ball really effectively right now, playing good defense and being very solid on special teams,” Braun said this week. “You know, our group understands that we have a big challenge, but we’re looking forward to that challenge and looking forward to being home.”

Wisconsin’s offense averaged 47 points and 569 total yards per game in its last two games, which were blowout victories over Purdue and Rutgers. A major reason for the improved success was Locke’s performance. He appears to have found his confidence as the team’s full-time starter.

“I think the quarterback play continues to go in the right direction for them. (Braedyn Locke) was used against Alabama. This is a difficult situation to force yourself into. But you can tell that he continues to play with more and more confidence,” said Braun. “You know, the O-line play is definitely outstanding and impressive. The backs run hard, run well. They create some explosive opportunities in the run game.”

Over the last two weeks, Locke has completed 65.5 percent of his passes and averaged 299.5 yards per game with five total touchdowns and three interceptions.

The emergence of wide receivers Vinny Anthony II and Trech Kakahuna as legitimate deep threats has given Wisconsin fans a glimpse of the potential passing offense that offensive coordinator Phil Longo promised them. Braun and the 3-3 Wildcats appear prepared for the best of the Badgers on Saturday.