Wisconsin Football Spring Game 2017: 5 things to watch for

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Nov 19, 2016; West Lafayette, IN, USA; Wisconsin Badgers running back Bradrick Shaw (7) celebrates his touchdown in the second quarter of the game against the Purdue Boilermakers at Ross Ade Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports /

1. Do the Badgers have another great running back?

Over the past few years, the Badgers have seamlessly replaced star players at running back such as Montee Ball, James White and Melvin Gordon, and will have to do so once again in 2017.

Corey Clement is one of the top running backs in this year’s NFL draft after piling up 1,375 yards and 15 touchdowns in his senior season. Productive backup Dare Ogunbowale was also lost to graduation, leaving Wisconsin with limited experience at the position for next season.

Redshirt sophomore Bradrick Shaw and Pittsburgh transfer Chris James are the clear-cut favorites to take over for Clement. All reports this spring indicate there is little to separate the two in the spring, so Friday’s scrimmage will be critical in the race for the starting job.

Shaw piled up five touchdowns on just 88 carries a year ago, while James offers a little more versatility and receiving ability out of the backfield. A good showing prior to the season could also put junior Taiwan Deal in the mix, although all three should see a fair amount of playing time in 2017.

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Wisconsin’s offensive line projects as one of the best run-blocking units in the nation once again, so whoever emerges as the starter could be in line for a productive season.

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