Joel Stave is the Badgers' most important player in 2015

Published Jun. 1, 2015 2:21 p.m. ET

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Whenever you are thinking about the Wisconsin Badgers during the preseason, you assume they will have a strong running game. This year should be no different even though the team replaces three offensive lineman and Melvin Gordon. Corey Clement and a host of big boys ready to prove their worth will make sure of that.

The biggest key for the Badgers this season will be whether or not they can get steady play from quarterback Joel Stave. The embattled signal caller went through a case of the ‘yips’ last season and did finish the season strong where he really cemented himself as the starter over Tanner McEvoy.

Now coming into 2015, Stave is reunited with the coach that recruited him in Paul Chryst who is considered to be a “quarterback whisperer.” Chryst will need to work some magic though, considering Stave finished last season with more interceptions (ten) than touchdowns (nine).

If Stave can keep from turning the ball over which will put the defense in bad spots, plus make plays when needed, this team has the tools to win the Big Ten West division.

Photo Credit: Jeff Hanisch/USA TODAY Sports