Joel Stave
Former Wisconsin Badger starter Joel Stave says he hasn’t had any mental blocks in weeks and said he’ll be prepared to take the field is necessary.
Stave had issues during training camp that led to him not being able to complete even the most routine passes. It was one month ago that Stave detailed to a large group of reporters, just exactly what the issues were with regards to his throwing and his dropped down the depth chart.
Yesterday, Stave told reporters that he feels a lot better than he did a month ago.
AUDIO: Stave said he feels much better now :13
AUDIO: Stave on the most difficult time over the past month :13
Stave hasn’t played this season and there’s no guarantee he’ll move into the backup spot behind Tanner McEvoy just because he said he’s ready to go if needed.
Badgers coach Gary Andersen said offensive coordinator Andy Ludwig will have to decide if they can count on Stave to perform under pressure.
Stave’s throwing issues began shortly after he was told that McEvoy would be the starter for UW’s season opener against LSU. But Stave said the problem is gone.
AUDIO: Stave said he hasn’t had any issues in weeks :17
What Stave could have going for him is the fact that the Badger passing game which has been a work in progress. Tanner McEvoy has completed 59.3% of his passes (51 for 86) for an average of 151.2 yards per game.
But McEvoy has started slow in games. In the first quarter of games he has completed 8 of 20 (40%) for 76 yards, just 3.8 yards per attempt.
Wisconsin coach Gary Andersen said it has to improve as the Badgers open Big Ten play this Saturday in Evanston, Ill. against Northwestern.