J.J. Watt, the former NFL defensive powerhouse, has thrust himself into the spotlight this week with pointed criticism of his alma mater while defending his brother’s team, showcasing the respected analyst’s passionate engagement with college and professional football.
Watt called out the University of Wisconsin’s dramatic departure from its traditional playing style under head coach Luke Fickell in a stunning rebuke that has sent shockwaves through the college football community. The criticism comes in the wake of the Badgers’ devastating 44-25 loss to Nebraska, where both teams entered with matching 5-5 records.
“We are Wisconsin. Physicality, a running game, a great O-Line, and great defense. That is our identity,” Watt declared, his words carrying the weight of someone who helped build the program’s reputation. The statement resonates particularly strongly given Wisconsin’s recent struggles to maintain its historically dominant ground game.
The numbers paint a grim picture of Wisconsin’s decline. Quarterback Braedyn Locke’s performance – 292 yards and three touchdowns, marred by another interception – highlights the team’s shift away from its run-first philosophy. Running backs Darrion Dupree and Tawee Walker combined for modest rushing totals, with just 63 and 55 yards, respectively, that fall far short of Wisconsin’s traditionally powerful ground attack.
The situation has prompted action, with Fickell firing offensive coordinator Phil Longo. This move signals potential changes, though many wonder if it’s enough to restore the program’s traditional identity.
While critiquing his alma mater, Watt has simultaneously emerged as a staunch defender of the Pittsburgh Steelers, where his brother T.J. currently stars. In a particularly memorable moment, Watt took ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky to task for questioning the Steelers’ Super Bowl potential. Orlovsky’s claim that Pittsburgh couldn’t win by “kicking field goals” against top quarterbacks like Lamar Jackson drew Watt’s sharp response.
“That’s a WILD take to make 4 days after LITERALLY beating Team A with only field goals,” Watt fired back, referencing the Steelers’ recent victory over Jackson’s Ravens. He even included a pointed jab at Orlovsky’s infamous safety play from 2008, demonstrating his ability to deliver criticism with impact and humor.
The contrast between Watt’s criticism of Wisconsin and the Steelers’ defense highlights a crucial point about football identity. While the Steelers have maintained their defensive-minded, strict football approach—currently sporting an impressive 8-2 record—Wisconsin appears to have lost its way trying to modernize its offense.
Looking ahead, Wisconsin faces a critical juncture. The program must decide whether to return to its roots of smash-mouth football or continue pursuing Fickell’s vision of a more contemporary offense. The search for a new offensive coordinator will likely prove pivotal in determining this direction.
For Fickell and his staff, the pressure continues to mount. With program legends like Watt publicly expressing concern, the urgency to establish a clear identity – whether old or new – grows with each passing game. The coming months will prove crucial in determining whether Wisconsin can recapture its former glory or if this period marks a permanent shift in the program’s history.