Tyler Van Dyke named Wisconsin starting QB after transferring from Miami
- Tyler Van Dyke, a Miami transfer, has won the starting quarterback position for Wisconsin.
- He competed with Braedyn Locke and Tanner Mordecai for the role.
- This decision comes after Tyler's impressive performance during the selection process.
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Tyler Van Dyke has officially been named the starting quarterback for the Wisconsin Badgers, as announced by offensive coordinator Phil Longo following Wednesday's morning practice. Van Dyke, a transfer from Miami, secured the position after a competitive battle with Braedyn Locke, who filled in for the injured Tanner Mordecai last season. The Badgers are set to kick off their season against Western Michigan on August 30. Van Dyke, who was recognized as the Atlantic Coast Conference rookie of the year in 2021, faced challenges during his tenure at Miami, including injuries and inconsistency. Despite these setbacks, he managed to complete 63.7% of his passes over three seasons, amassing 7,469 yards, 54 touchdowns, and 23 interceptions. Last season, he recorded a completion rate of 65.8%, throwing for 2,703 yards, 19 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions. Longo praised Locke's development during training camp, noting that the competition between the two quarterbacks was closer than last year when Tanner Mordecai was the clear starter. He emphasized that both quarterbacks are viewed as equally capable, referring to them as a "1-A and 1-B" situation. However, Van Dyke's performance ultimately earned him the starting role as the Badgers prepare for their upcoming season. Wisconsin, coming off a 7-6 record in their inaugural season under head coach Luke Fickell, finds itself outside the preseason AP Top 25 for the first time since 2016, marking a significant shift in expectations for the program.