I can't wait any longer. Now that the Cadet, Junior and Senior level wrestling is slowing down, it is time to start focusing on the upcoming 2022 NCAA season. I think this season could potentially be the toughest I have ever seen with the free year of eligibility because of Covid. Guys who would normally be graduated and gone are back for another season on teams like Iowa and it just makes the competition level that much tougher.
I thought it would be fun to get the conversation started by looking at some of the wrestlers on the roster. I apologize in advance if I get something incorrect or didn't write something for your favorite wrestler on the team. My intention with this thread is to try and stay positive but also realistic when taking a look at the roster. In my opinion, anyone who wrestles in college at any level is already a champion regardless of their results. Wrestling is one of the toughest things I have ever done in my life which I think we can all agree on. So here goes. Comments and corrections are welcomed. Just try to stay positive :).
Coaching Staff Chris Bono, Jon Reader, Seth Gross
I wanted to start off with the coaching staff because they have been busy this off-season. I saw the staff coaching men's freestyle, women's freestyle and greco at places like the Junior World team trials, Senior World team trials, Olympic qualifiers, and Junior worlds. I am sure I missed a few but the point is they have been extremely busy and hands on with the Wisconsin Regional Training Center (RTC) athletes all off-season around the world. The dedication and time away from their families has been impressive and goes above and beyond what many coaches were doing this summer. Bono and Reader also competed in the Badger 100 race which they have talked about on Rokfin. No one will ever question their toughness and never give up attitude after this event. Seth Gross is still competing and is attempting to make the Senior World team in a few weeks in a stacked weight class. Bono and Gross also went back to his home state to run a wrestling tournament and build wresting in that state. I saw many tweets by athletes and parents on high school visits by the coaching staff and can't wait to see who will become the next big recruit. Personally, I think the success of the RTC goes hand in hand with the success of the program and I have really enjoyed seeing the progress this summer.
125 Eric Barnett, Greenville, WI (2021 All American)
I'm not going to lie, this guy had one of my favorite seasons last year. From the pin of Devin Schroeder to the run at NCAA's I just love watching Eric wrestle. He is always in the match and you never know when something might happen. Even better yet is that he is ranked 20th by WrestleStat even after being an All-American last season. Just more fuel to the fire for this guy to come out and bomb some higher ranked wrestlers. I expect big things. Way to represent your home state.
125 Ethan Rotundo, Vancouver, WA (2021 Senior Nationals Silver Medalist)
Ethan Rotundo is one of the most improved wrestlers on the team over the past 5 years. He proved that this past off-season taking silver at the U.S. Open Senior Nationals. To watch his progression, confidence, and toughness grow since he arrived in Madison is a testament to his strong character and I love anytime he takes the mat. What a great role model for all the wrestlers in the room on how to persevere in tough circumstances and to never give up.
133 Kyle Burwick, Hettinger, ND (2021 NCAA Qualifier)
What an end to the 2021 season last year. We all know the level wrestler Kyle is and we caught a glimpse of what he is capable of as he came on strong at the Big Ten's to become an NCAA qualifier. Working with Seth Gross every day has brought his mat wrestling to a new level. I can't wait to see what jumps he makes this season after another year in the room with Barnett, Gross, and now Austin Gomez. I went back and did some research on Burwick and you forget just how good he was coming out of high school. I expect a BIG jump this season.
141 Austin Gomez, Carol Stream, IL (2019 NCAA Qualifier, transfer from Iowa State)
O.K. – I am going to say it right now, I am super stoked about this guy coming to Wisconsin. He is the real deal. The biggest question mark is can he stay healthy after retiring from the sport due to concussions. Find this guy a special head gear to protect himself and look out. He was one of the most sought-after recruits in the country. Gomez was a member of the 2016 and 2017 Junior National Freestyle Team, a two-time Pan American champion, two-time Fargo freestyle national champion, two-time Fargo Greco national champion, three-time Illinois state champion, and a member of the 2011 Cadet World Team who will now be rolling around with Barnett, Burwick, Rotundo, and Gross. Need I say more? Can't wait is an understatement. Stay healthy my friend!
149 Drew Scharenbrock/Devin Bahr/Joey Zargo
WrestleStat has 7 guys listed at this weight for the Badgers. Yes, you read that correctly, 7 guys on a roster of about 30. Almost 25% and that doesn't count the 6 guys at 157. They list Joey Zargo as a redshirt this year which makes sense. I think he needs one more year of development to improve his consistency and strength after watching him this past year. You get flashes of brilliance followed by inconsistent results at times. If he can wrestle at 100% efficiency and concentration at all times, he will make some noise. Come on Seth Gross! Get this guy firing on all cylinders. Scharenbrock wrestled most of last season as the starter and quite honestly had one of the toughest schedules around. I am not making excuses for his results just pointing out that if he changes a few things he will have an outstanding season. Devin Bahr is one of my favorite wrestlers and I wish he could stay healthy and find a way into the lineup more next season. He just looks like a tank and has that tough wrestler style that I like.
157 Garrett Model, Stoughton, WI
Garrett has been a 3-year starter for the Badgers and this says something about his toughness and grit. He is one of those guys that has always been right on the doorstep and has quietly improved each year. His blue-collar work ethic is what makes me love his progression even more, but I want this season to be his breakout year. If he can take his wrestling to the next level it will be huge for the team.
157 Dean (D.J.) Hamiti, Joliet, IL (Super 32 Champion, Fargo Champion)
WrestleStat has him listed as a red shirt next year which makes sense but I hope he wrestles at Midlands this season so we can see where he is at. This young man has done it all in high school and has a ton of potential. He wrestled at the Junior Nationals this past year and was rolling through the bracket and took a tough loss 4-3 to Penn State wrestler Alex Facundo (Who later lost to Keegan O'Toole). He is right there and with a little time in the room will become an All-American for the Badgers at some point in my opinion. Yes, he is that good and he has a really unique style of wrestling which is fun to watch. Honestly, I think he will be going 165 this season since Wick left.
165 Josh Otto / Tyler Dow
Josh Otto had an extremely tough schedule last year and was competitive in almost every match. I know that's what you get in the Big Ten but go look at his results from last year and you will see what I mean. I am guessing he expects more of himself this next season and I am hoping we get to see him have a breakout year. If he can get his confidence and swagger back, he should have a really good season. At this point, it would be a mental battle for me more than physical if I were him. Tyler Dow has been a mystery to me. I thought we would see him more over the years, but he could never find a permanent spot in the lineup. Now, with Wick gone, I am super excited to see him listed on WrestleStat at 165 since he has wrestled up for the team in the past (184 and 174). I hope he has been on a weight management program since the day Wick announced he was leaving because he could make some noise plus his style is just fun for the fans to watch.
174 Andrew McNally, Uniontown, OH (3X NCAA Qualifier, transfer from Kent State)
I can't wait to see what McNally does after spending time in the Wisconsin room with his training partners. He made it to the round of 12 last year before losing a tough match 6-3 to eventual NCAA champ Carter Starocci. One thing I noticed when looking at his past results is he wrestles a lot of close matches which is going to be stressful but exciting to watch. I think all Badger fans can say thank you for picking Wisconsin. You filled a huge hole in the lineup and now it is time to go rip up the Big Ten.
184 Chris Weiler, Biglerville, PA (3X NCAA Qualifier, transferred from Lehigh)
Chris is another guy who filled a huge hole in the lineup last year when he transferred from Lehigh. A former round of 12 guy from the NCAA tournament who also had some really tough matches last year in the condensed season. I expect a lot of big things from him this year after him getting a taste of the Big Ten and having a year in the room with his current training partners. When looking at his past results it is amazing how many big matches he has had against top ranked wrestlers. He is a grizzled and seasoned veteran who can make some serious noise this season. Thanks for choosing Wisconsin Chris!
197 Braxton Amos, Mineral Wells, WV (Olympic Alternate, Junior Freestyle World Champion, Junior Greco Bronze Medalist, 3X Super 32 Champion, 5X Fargo National Champion)
Anyone who has been paying attention knows what Braxton has done over the past year. It is simply amazing to watch the progression he has made training with the Wisconsin RTC. His biggest challenge this season may be his weight cut down to 197 since he has been wrestling at 97kg (213 lbs.) this past year. It sounds like his goal is to be walking around at around 207. If he can make the transition to this weight class, he is going to be a force to be reckoned with. He is unbelievably strong, athletic, and has a relentless motor. Braxton seems to live and breathe the lifestyle that it takes to make the cut the right way and as I said before, I don't think anyone wants to wrestle Amos this next year. He is just a tough wrestler who will outwork you and never quit. 197 potentially could be the toughest weight class this year so he will be challenged all season. Another question mark is how he will perform on the bottom since he has spent so much time developing his Freestyle and Greco skills. Based on what I have seen from Braxton, if he has a weakness, he will work on that position until it becomes a strength. I am not worried about his mat wrestling and I expect him to come out guns blazing in all positions.
197 Peter Christensen, Norridge, IL (Greco Junior Nationals Silver, Freestyle Junior Nationals Quarterfinalist)
I sometimes forget he was ranked second in the country at 195 coming out of high school. I really enjoyed seeing him wrestle at the Junior Nationals this year and his results speak for themselves. You tend to forget how good some of the guys in the room are. WrestleStat has him listed at 197 although he wrestled 285 last year. I think he is kind of a tweener being stuck between 197 and heavy but he will be important for the team this season and I like his development. I also think him and Amos are great training partners for each other to stay sharp in Greco all year long.
285 Trent Hillger, Linden, MI (3X NCAA Qualifier, 2X All-American)
After hearing what Thor went through to compete this past season injury wise it just makes me like him even more. I didn't think this was possible until I heard the podcast about his injuries. To top it off with an All-American finish at the national tournament and silence those questioning his wrestling was just fun to watch. None of us really knew what was going on during the season but we could all see he was fighting through something. To continue to battle for his team week in and week out just shows you the mental and physical toughness this young man brings to the team. His work ethic and toughness remind me of Brett Favre. My guess is his teammates love this guy. He is the real deal and seems like he is one of the nicest guys you could meet off the mat. I hope he takes it to Mason Parris this season like we all know he can when he is healthy. He is one of my favorite wrestlers on the team and I really hope he decides to come back to Wisconsin next year with his extra season of eligibility.
285 Hayden Copass, Catlin/Westville, IL (Super 32 Champion, 2X Fargo Champion)
Hayden should be redshirting this season but I just wanted to put him down because I expect big things from him down the road as well. Imagine the wrestling partners he has to train with in the room coupled with the success he had in high school and you can see why I am so excited for his future. I also think it is cool that he wrestled some Greco in his past so he should give a good feel for Christensen and Amos.
Here is the full roster from WrestleStat with their projected starter listed first with their rankings: https://www.wrestlestat.com/team/77/wisconsin/profile (https://www.wrestlestat.com/team/77/wisconsin/profile)
125 #20 Barnett, Eric #67 Rotondo, Ethan
133 #29 Burwick, Kyle #148 Bavery, Cole #148 Severin, Jack
141 #13 Gomez, Austin #127 Escobar, Trey #161 Dentino, Dominic
149 #73 Scharenbrock, Drew #58 Bahr, Devin #133 Stilling, Daniel #196 Carroll, Cole #196 Thorpe, Connor #196 Zargo, Joseph #321 Medora, Aidan
157 #52 Model, Garrett #175 Hamiti, Dean #175 Model, Gavin #175 Anderson, Cale #279 Anderson, Cody #289 Meicher, Kevin
165 #132 Otto, Joshua #57 Dow, Tyler #299 Lantz, Anders
174 #8 McNally, Andrew #149 Calhoun, Graham
184 #23 Weiler, Chris
197 #112 Amos, Braxton #72 Christensen, Peter #219 Salemme, Andrew
285 #7 Hillger, Trent #143 Copass, Hayden #143 Schmidtke, Jonah #143 Empey, Brooks
I don't think Braxton Amos has ever been ranked 112th in anything in his life before and I don't think you will ever see it again ;). I am going to take some time to enjoy this historical moment.
I thought Connor Thorpe from Brookfield AWA was going to UNI although he is listed for the Badgers at 149 which would be awesome if it were true. Does anyone know anything about this?
133 Cole Bavery – 3X state placer from Edgerton, WI
133 Jack Severin – 4X state placer, 2X state champ from Kewaunee, WI
141 Trey Escobar – Arizona state champ and multi time age level All American from Peoria, AZ
141 Dominic Dentino – 3X state placer from Brookfield, WI
149 Daniel Stilling – 3X state placer from Elkhorn, WI
149 Cole Carroll – 3X NJ state qualifier from Randolph, NJ
149 Connor Thorpe – Thought he was going to UNI????
149 Aidan Medora – 4X state finalist, 2X state champ, Fargo runner-up, Super 32 All American from Wauwatosa, WI
157 Gavin Model – 2X state qualifier, 1X placer from Stoughton, WI
157 Cale Anderson – 4x state placer, 1X champ from Viroqua, WI
157 Cody Anderson – 4x state placer from Waukee, IA
157 Kevin Meicher – Transferred from Minnesota, originally from Middleton, WI
165 Anders Lantz – Transferred from SDSU, 3X state placer from Ellsworth, WI Land of the Cheese Curd!
174 Graham Calhoun – 4x state qualifier, 3x state placer from Plymouth, IN
197 Andrew Salemme – state runner up from Wauwatosa, WI
285 Jonah Schmidtke – state placer from Clovis, CA
285 Brooks Empey – 4x state placer, 2x state champion from Stoughton, WI
Thank you Harris. Greatly appreciate the effort.
excellent Harris!!! only change I would make is Peter to hwy. He is huge! I can't see him working back to 97
Cole Carroll is a 3X NJ state Qualifier (1 division).
Quote from: Harris on August 28, 2021, 04:29:48 PM
I thought Connor Thorpe from Brookfield AWA was going to UNI although he is listed for the Badgers at 149 which would be awesome if it were true. Does anyone know anything about this?
He is not showing on the UW roster or the UNI roster for 21-22. Still showing UNI on his instagram and twitter page. Hopefully wrestlestat is correct. Would be a really nice addition.
Braxton Amos is scheduled to be on FloWrestling Radio live tomorrow 9/1/21. It is broadcast live on YouTube early in the morning if you don't have a Flo subscription.
https://www.teamusa.org/USA-Wrestling/Athlete-of-Week/2021/August/30/Braxton-Amos-selected-as-USA-Wrestling-Athlete-of-the-Week?fbclid=IwAR2WZUHjyoDB-RsB_QQTNXcq86bCddrEWWt_KW4e1JnkrjmGMlQWMv5oyg0
great job Braxton!
80KG Cadet World Silver Medalist James Rowley from Oregon released his top 6 schools and UW Madison is on the list. I believe Wisconsin is the best school on that list to meet his academic and athletic goals plus it is by far the best college town in the nation ;D. This is the athlete that Jon Reader went trap shooting with on his recruiting visit to Oregon. Wisconsin is quietly building one of the best upper weight rooms around and Rowley would have some outstanding training partners.
2022 InterMat College Rankings:
125 Eric Barnett #12
133 Kyle Burwick #16
141 Austin Gomez #14
174 Andrew McNally #11
184 Chris Weiler #19
285 Trent Hillger #6
Quote from: dad 2 5 on August 31, 2021, 06:52:46 PM
https://www.teamusa.org/USA-Wrestling/Athlete-of-Week/2021/August/30/Braxton-Amos-selected-as-USA-Wrestling-Athlete-of-the-Week?fbclid=IwAR2WZUHjyoDB-RsB_QQTNXcq86bCddrEWWt_KW4e1JnkrjmGMlQWMv5oyg0
great job Braxton!
Awesome. Can't wait to see this dude.
Quote from: Harris on September 02, 2021, 08:39:16 PM
80KG Cadet World Silver Medalist James Rowley from Oregon released his top 6 schools and UW Madison is on the list. I believe Wisconsin is the best school on that list to meet his academic and athletic goals plus it is by far the best college town in the nation ;D. This is the athlete that Jon Reader went trap shooting with on his recruiting visit to Oregon. Wisconsin is quietly building one of the best upper weight rooms around and Rowley would have some outstanding training partners.
Would be a huge recruit and fill in at 174/184, which is a little weaker with some seniors who will be leaving after this year. Would get to train with Braxton and co.
Quote from: Harris on September 02, 2021, 08:39:16 PM
80KG Cadet World Silver Medalist James Rowley from Oregon released his top 6 schools and UW Madison is on the list. I believe Wisconsin is the best school on that list to meet his academic and athletic goals plus it is by far the best college town in the nation ;D. This is the athlete that Jon Reader went trap shooting with on his recruiting visit to Oregon. Wisconsin is quietly building one of the best upper weight rooms around and Rowley would have some outstanding training partners.
Would be a great get.
Interesting school list. A lot of great schools for all different kinds of reasons. Always concerned when I see an Ivy league school or a military academy. They provide some things that the UW cannot compete with. Even without his wrestling skill, this school list tells me this is a very impressive young man.
Quote from: vsmf2010 on September 03, 2021, 12:42:15 PM
Quote from: Harris on September 02, 2021, 08:39:16 PM
80KG Cadet World Silver Medalist James Rowley from Oregon released his top 6 schools and UW Madison is on the list. I believe Wisconsin is the best school on that list to meet his academic and athletic goals plus it is by far the best college town in the nation ;D. This is the athlete that Jon Reader went trap shooting with on his recruiting visit to Oregon. Wisconsin is quietly building one of the best upper weight rooms around and Rowley would have some outstanding training partners.
Would be a great get.
Interesting school list. A lot of great schools for all different kinds of reasons. Always concerned when I see an Ivy league school or a military academy. They provide some things that the UW cannot compete with. Even without his wrestling skill, this school list tells me this is a very impressive young man.
Also very interesting you don't see PSU, Iowa, Oklahoma State, etc. Looks like a kid trying to find his own path.
Quote from: wrastle63 on September 03, 2021, 01:07:45 PM
Quote from: vsmf2010 on September 03, 2021, 12:42:15 PM
Quote from: Harris on September 02, 2021, 08:39:16 PM
80KG Cadet World Silver Medalist James Rowley from Oregon released his top 6 schools and UW Madison is on the list. I believe Wisconsin is the best school on that list to meet his academic and athletic goals plus it is by far the best college town in the nation ;D. This is the athlete that Jon Reader went trap shooting with on his recruiting visit to Oregon. Wisconsin is quietly building one of the best upper weight rooms around and Rowley would have some outstanding training partners.
Would be a great get.
Interesting school list. A lot of great schools for all different kinds of reasons. Always concerned when I see an Ivy league school or a military academy. They provide some things that the UW cannot compete with. Even without his wrestling skill, this school list tells me this is a very impressive young man.
Also very interesting you don't see PSU, Iowa, Oklahoma State, etc. Looks like a kid trying to find his own path.
Another reason to like him even more. I hope he sees what the Badger program is trying to build and wants to be part of something special. I love how people are replying to his twitter post trying to showcase each of their schools.
Don't forget that Reader went on a home visit to his house on July 9th and then was coaching him at the Cadet Worlds on July 16th. He should have a great understanding of the Badger program, coaching philosophy, and training partners.
It would be cool to get him to the Badger game tomorrow so he can see the atmosphere and excitement on game day.
Quote from: Harris on September 03, 2021, 01:49:02 PM
It would be cool to get him to the Badger game tomorrow so he can see the atmosphere and excitement on game day.
+1
Quote from: dad 2 5 on September 03, 2021, 06:39:18 PM
Quote from: Harris on September 03, 2021, 01:49:02 PM
It would be cool to get him to the Badger game tomorrow so he can see the atmosphere and excitement on game day.
+1
He announced his visit list and will be here Oct 2nd for the Michigan game!
Quote from: BuckyMatt on September 03, 2021, 06:44:25 PM
Quote from: dad 2 5 on September 03, 2021, 06:39:18 PM
Quote from: Harris on September 03, 2021, 01:49:02 PM
It would be cool to get him to the Badger game tomorrow so he can see the atmosphere and excitement on game day.
+1
He announced his visit list and will be here Oct 2nd for the Michigan game!
Even better.
Quote from: Harris on September 02, 2021, 09:25:59 PM
2022 InterMat College Rankings:
125 Eric Barnett #12
133 Kyle Burwick #16
141 Austin Gomez #14
174 Andrew McNally #11
184 Chris Weiler #19
285 Trent Hillger #6
17th as a team and that is with Amos not included yet. Where does he land? top 10? top 5? top 3? Ok
TOM - #1! BABY!!!
Zargo at 141 and Gomez at 149 would be a salty lineup. Personally, I think Zargo would have more success at this weight class this year if he doesn't red shirt.
Stole this from the other thread as well, "I could also see some combo of Barnett, Ethan, Burwick 125-141." I like it.
https://www.buckys5thquarter.com/2021/9/16/22677610/wisconsin-badgers-wrestling-preseason-intermat-rankings-released-eric-barnett-trent-hillger
Quote from: dad 2 5 on September 16, 2021, 07:12:05 PM
https://www.buckys5thquarter.com/2021/9/16/22677610/wisconsin-badgers-wrestling-preseason-intermat-rankings-released-eric-barnett-trent-hillger
And no Braxton ranked 🤣🤣
Quote from: Harris on September 11, 2021, 03:46:35 PM
Stole this from the other thread as well, "I could also see some combo of Barnett, Ethan, Burwick 125-141." I like it.
Rotondo has had some very good results. He just beat Zane Richards in freestyle 11-7. Zane was a 2 time AA in college and has some good results on the senior level.
Could also see a Barnett redshirt and let Rotondo use his year of eligibility. Then Barnett would have the same eligibility as Burwick and Otto with a couple seasons left. With the team we have this year it would be nice to put the best team we have possibly out, but would also be good to let Rotondo go. Think he could do real well at 125.
I think Rotundo is solid, but up at 141 might be a lot to ask...the big 10 is tough. What is his ideal weight now?
Being a college AA is extremely tough. Barnett was able to last year, this year there will be more competition as teams like cornell are not out. I would not be a fan of redshirting Barnett unless Rotundo is beating him. There have been too many "wait until next year. We need to wrestle our best guys.
Quote from: mkm13 on September 17, 2021, 10:34:28 AM
I think Rotundo is solid, but up at 141 might be a lot to ask...the big 10 is tough. What is his ideal weight now?
Being a college AA is extremely tough. Barnett was able to last year, this year there will be more competition as teams like cornell are not out. I would not be a fan of redshirting Barnett unless Rotundo is beating him. There have been too many "wait until next year. We need to wrestle our best guys.
I totally agree with your last sentence about wrestling our best guys. My understanding was:
125 Barnett
133 Rotondo
141 Burwick
149 Gomez
This is a pretty good looking lineup.
Is Burwick moving up because Rotundo is beating him? Will he be a full sized 141? He was just starting to find a bit of success at 133 at the end of the year, i was hoping he could build on that this year.
If he is not a full sized 141, it could be be tough up a weight.
I have no idea who is beating who in the room. I just saw on the other thread the speculation of what could be the most successful lineup for the team getting the best wrestlers on the mat. It's fun trying to guess what may happen while we wait for the season to start. I actually think getting Barnett, Rotondo, Burwick, and Gomez in the starting four weights would be great for the team.
The big 10 and AA level wrestling is so tough. We likely only have 1 guy on the roster would could wrestle at not their ideal weight and have a good chance to AA (Braxton at HWT). In my opinion, the high level guys or the ones that have a chance to do damage at NCAAs need to go to their ideal weights and you fill in around them, even if it means your best 10 are not wrestling.
WrestleStat has Trey Escobar listed as the starter at 141 after Gomez moved up to 149. Escobar was an Arizona state champion, the 6th ranked 132 pounder in 2017 by Flo, and the Junior National Freestyle champion that year. I was super excited when he came to Wisconsin and would love to see him wrestle at the level we all know he is capable of.
This past week Flo put on who's number one (WNO) with the top high school wrestlers in the nation. Unfortunately, we didn't get to see number 3 ranked 170 lb. Cadet World Silver medalist James Rowley wrestle but I am still hoping he chooses Wisconsin after his visit. He will fit in perfectly with the team.
I was looking at the open mat high school rankings today after they were updated and noticed the Badgers don't have any commits from the top 12 wrestlers at any weight yet. I also noticed a few Wisconsin high school kids and thought it would be great to recruit some of these top national wrestlers who don't have a college listed.
126 12. SR. Nicolar Rivera, Stoughton, WI
160 5. JR. Braeden Scoles , Kewaskum, WI
170 5. JR. Brayden Thompson, Montini (IL), WI
182 11. SO. Connor Mirasola, West Bend, WI and Cole :)
220 8. SO. Koy Hopke, Amery, WI
Any other potential recruits that you can think of?
Quote from: Harris on September 26, 2021, 07:32:37 PM
WrestleStat has Trey Escobar listed as the starter at 141 after Gomez moved up to 149. Escobar was an Arizona state champion, the 6th ranked 132 pounder in 2017 by Flo, and the Junior National Freestyle champion that year. I was super excited when he came to Wisconsin and would love to see him wrestle at the level we all know he is capable of.
This past week Flo put on who's number one (WNO) with the top high school wrestlers in the nation. Unfortunately, we didn't get to see number 3 ranked 170 lb. Cadet World Silver medalist James Rowley wrestle but I am still hoping he chooses Wisconsin after his visit. He will fit in perfectly with the team.
I was looking at the open mat high school rankings today after they were updated and noticed the Badgers don't have any commits from the top 12 wrestlers at any weight yet. I also noticed a few Wisconsin high school kids and thought it would be great to recruit some of these top national wrestlers who don't have a college listed.
126 12. SR. Nicolar Rivera, Stoughton, WI
160 5. JR. Braeden Scoles , Kewaskum, WI
170 5. JR. Brayden Thompson, Montini (IL), WI
182 11. SO. Connor Mirasola, West Bend, WI and Cole :)
220 8. SO. Koy Hopke, Amery, WI
Any other potential recruits that you can think of?
For what it is worth Flo has 2022 Badger recruit Brock Bobzien ranked at 9 at 132. Of the 3 above ranked in the top ten Flo and the open mat have them ranked the same.
Quote from: vsmf2010 on September 26, 2021, 10:11:30 PM
Quote from: Harris on September 26, 2021, 07:32:37 PM
WrestleStat has Trey Escobar listed as the starter at 141 after Gomez moved up to 149. Escobar was an Arizona state champion, the 6th ranked 132 pounder in 2017 by Flo, and the Junior National Freestyle champion that year. I was super excited when he came to Wisconsin and would love to see him wrestle at the level we all know he is capable of.
This past week Flo put on who's number one (WNO) with the top high school wrestlers in the nation. Unfortunately, we didn't get to see number 3 ranked 170 lb. Cadet World Silver medalist James Rowley wrestle but I am still hoping he chooses Wisconsin after his visit. He will fit in perfectly with the team.
I was looking at the open mat high school rankings today after they were updated and noticed the Badgers don't have any commits from the top 12 wrestlers at any weight yet. I also noticed a few Wisconsin high school kids and thought it would be great to recruit some of these top national wrestlers who don't have a college listed.
126 12. SR. Nicolar Rivera, Stoughton, WI
160 5. JR. Braeden Scoles , Kewaskum, WI
170 5. JR. Brayden Thompson, Montini (IL), WI
182 11. SO. Connor Mirasola, West Bend, WI and Cole :)
220 8. SO. Koy Hopke, Amery, WI
Any other potential recruits that you can think of?
For what it is worth Flo has 2022 Badger recruit Brock Bobzien ranked at 9 at 132. Of the 3 above ranked in the top ten Flo and the open mat have them ranked the same.
Great catch! I see Bobzien listed as number 8 on the open mat but they didn't list Wisconsin as his college choice. Thank you.
Sounds like Bobzien, Rowley and Scoles will all be in Madison this weekend for visits!!
Quote from: BuckyMatt on September 27, 2021, 02:53:51 PM
Sounds like Bobzien, Rowley and Scoles will all be in Madison this weekend for visits!!
Yes I would like all 3 please. ;D
Quote from: vsmf2010 on September 27, 2021, 04:03:23 PM
Quote from: BuckyMatt on September 27, 2021, 02:53:51 PM
Sounds like Bobzien, Rowley and Scoles will all be in Madison this weekend for visits!!
Yes I would like all 3 please. ;D
+1
Excellent timing as UW is honoring Braxton for his Jr World Gold and Bronze at halftime of the football game. Recruits & parents get to experience what many other schools can only talk about, the University of Wisconsin is invested in their success.
The roster is updated on the UW site and here are a few observations:
I did not know that Liam Hughes and Andrew Sanders would be wrestling for the Badgers (they are not showing on wrestlestat)
Trey Escobar, Devin Bahr, Daniel Stilling, Connor Thorpe, and Hayden Copass are all showing on wrestlestat but not on the roster
Andrew McNally is listed as a freshman (wouldn't that be nice)
Drew Scharenbrock has cut several inches of hair off and Trent appears to have added a few
Did not see any mullets which is somewhat surprising as several badger wrestlers listed that as something they did over the summer
Jonah Schmidtke wins the award for best game face for sure
Three very impressive mustaches for Ethan Rotondo, Andrew Salemme and Anders Lantz
https://uwbadgers.com/sports/wrestling/roster
Check out the updated starters on WrestleStat:
125 Barnett
133 Rotondo
141 Burwick
149 Gomez
157 Model
165 Hamiti
174 McNally
184 Weiler
197 Amos
285 Hillger
That's a great starting lineup. They also removed the wrestlers not on the active roster it looks like.
Looks good. Will be curious how Burwick and Gomez do at higher weights.
Would be exciting to see Hamiti go right away, but I hope they only do it if he is an AA threat right away. 165 if stacked.
Hopefully Gomez, Weiler, and Hillger can all stay healthy this year.
Quote from: mkm13 on October 05, 2021, 07:03:33 AM
Looks good. Will be curious how Burwick and Gomez do at higher weights.
Would be exciting to see Hamiti go right away, but I hope they only do it if he is an AA threat right away. 165 if stacked.
Hopefully Gomez, Weiler, and Hillger can all stay healthy this year.
Agreed would rather see Otto start the season and make sure Hamiti is ready. I think he will be awesome and very successful, but nice to see it at a few opens first. This year will probably be the most stacked NCAAs ever with the free years. Just looking at that roster though it is hard to not see 10 qualifiers if healthy. Then NCAAs will be interesting.
I would say the odds of Model being a qualifier are not great, but hope I am wrong. I would like to say both Rotondo at 133 and Burwick at 141 will make it, but could also see them just missing out.
Model was right on the edge last year. He was ranked #26 by the coaches, but lots of guys not ranked got in because of how they did the AQs. Also have to remember that we only wrestled Big Ten teams. This season we have opens and other conferences on the schedule. Guys like Model who were on the edge of qualifying will be able to boost their record compared to just wrestling Big Ten.
As a team I would be surprised to see them crack the top 25, with all schools back.
Quote from: wrastle63 on October 06, 2021, 08:05:58 AM
Model was right on the edge last year. He was ranked #26 by the coaches, but lots of guys not ranked got in because of how they did the AQs. Also have to remember that we only wrestled Big Ten teams. This season we have opens and other conferences on the schedule. Guys like Model who were on the edge of qualifying will be able to boost their record compared to just wrestling Big Ten.
This year will also be more difficult than last year as there were guys sitting out and a few teams not wrestling. They will be back this year, in addition to guys getting a free year, so additional depth. I certainly hope you are correct, but think they odds at this point are not in his favor, short of jumping levels. I hope you are right and we can look back and see how wrong my post was.
Quote from: gwmiller44 on October 06, 2021, 08:35:37 AM
As a team I would be surprised to see them crack the top 25, with all schools back.
Assuming our top 7 guys (Barnett, Gomez, Hamiti, McNally, Weiler, Amos, and Hillger) stay relatively healthy and all wrestle, it would be a disappointment to not be in the top 25. Having said that, at NCAAs, you need to place high to score a lot of points. It is likely only a couple of them have the potential to be top 3 or 4 at this point, so high points at NCAAs might be limited.
Quote from: gwmiller44 on October 06, 2021, 08:35:37 AM
As a team I would be surprised to see them crack the top 25, with all schools back.
What it your basis for this statement? Wrestlestat has them at #21 with Rotondo at 73, Hamiti at 137, and Amos at 113. Also to be outside of the top 25 you would likely have to be bottom 4 or 5 in the Big Ten I would think.
Quote from: gwmiller44 on October 06, 2021, 08:35:37 AM
As a team I would be surprised to see them crack the top 25, with all schools back.
50 points is a reasonable target to get within the top 10. I would not be surprised at all by exceeding that.
125 – Barnett, 7th, 10.5 points
133 – Burwick/Rotondo, Qual 2-2, 2.0 points
141 – Burwick/Zargo, 0 points
149 - Gomez, 7th, 10.5 points
157 – Model/Scharenbrock, 0 points
165 – Hamiti, Qual 3-2, 3.0 points
174 – McNally, Qual 3-2, 3.0 points
184 – Weiler, Qual 3-2, 3.0 points
197 – Amos, 3rd, 13.5 points
285 – Hilger, 7th, 9 points
Something like this is 54.5 points which would have a great shot to be top 10. This assumes 8 qualifiers, 4 winning matches and scoring minimal points, 3 making low AA, and 1 higher AA. This should be the goal minimum.
I only see 1 AA, The conference alone not one champion maybe a 3rd and the rest lower.
Quote from: gwmiller44 on October 06, 2021, 10:58:04 AM
I only see 1 AA, The conference alone not one champion maybe a 3rd and the rest lower.
Booooooooooooo. Wet blanket alert!
Just kidding :)
Hopefully you are wrong, but it certainly is tough to be an AA. Regardless I am looking forward to the season. I think the potential is there.
Quote from: gwmiller44 on October 06, 2021, 10:58:04 AM
I only see 1 AA, The conference alone not one champion maybe a 3rd and the rest lower.
This is certainly within reason, as we all know, this is going to be a brutally deep year at every weight. But I would also say it is within reason that McNally, Weiler, or Hamiti could reach AA (similar to Barnett).
Quote from: gwmiller44 on October 06, 2021, 08:35:37 AM
As a team I would be surprised to see them crack the top 25, with all schools back.
At the moment I would think the Badger's NCAA placement betting line would be at 19th place (maybe 18.5). We know what side of the line you would wager.
Quote from: gwmiller44 on October 06, 2021, 10:58:04 AM
I only see 1 AA, The conference alone not one champion maybe a 3rd and the rest lower.
So who are you predicting will not AA? Three time AA Trent Hillger or World Champion and #1 overall recruit Braxton Amos?
Quote from: rjchev141 on October 06, 2021, 10:33:50 AM
Quote from: gwmiller44 on October 06, 2021, 08:35:37 AM
As a team I would be surprised to see them crack the top 25, with all schools back.
50 points is a reasonable target to get within the top 10. I would not be surprised at all by exceeding that.
125 – Barnett, 7th, 10.5 points
133 – Burwick/Rotondo, Qual 2-2, 2.0 points
141 – Burwick/Zargo, 0 points
149 - Gomez, 7th, 10.5 points
157 – Model/Scharenbrock, 0 points
165 – Hamiti, Qual 3-2, 3.0 points
174 – McNally, Qual 3-2, 3.0 points
184 – Weiler, Qual 3-2, 3.0 points
197 – Amos, 3rd, 13.5 points
285 – Hilger, 7th, 9 points
Something like this is 54.5 points which would have a great shot to be top 10. This assumes 8 qualifiers, 4 winning matches and scoring minimal points, 3 making low AA, and 1 higher AA. This should be the goal minimum.
I like the idea but I think Hamiti would struggle if he wrestles this year. I want to see what Amos does as I think he could be the next four timer and a guy that could win a title. The move of guy up seems against what Bono teaches and I think there could be some struggles there. With that said, I am excited to see how the year will unfold and guy will do adn I would really like to see some big time guys come in next year to add to the projection of the program
Hillger has the experience and knows what it takes. I would be surprised to see Amos up a weight class and have success in our conference. I hope that they both do, they are my picks! Even though Hwy weight is really deep. If Amos went HWT after Hillger is finished.
Quote from: gwmiller44 on October 07, 2021, 08:14:48 AM
Hilger has the experience and knows what it takes. I would be surprised to see Amos up a weight class and have success in our conference. I hope that they both do, they are my picks! Even though Hwy weight is really deep.
In what world do you think Amos is "up a weight class". He wrestled 97kg at worlds and won gold and bronze. He also wrestled 97kg at senior world team trials and took 3rd in Greco. If you need help converting that is 213lbs.
I think he was referring to someone's earlier comment that they thought Amos would AA at 285 right out of the box.
Quote from: wrastle63 on October 07, 2021, 09:16:40 AM
Quote from: gwmiller44 on October 07, 2021, 08:14:48 AM
Hilger has the experience and knows what it takes. I would be surprised to see Amos up a weight class and have success in our conference. I hope that they both do, they are my picks! Even though Hwy weight is really deep.
In what world do you think Amos is "up a weight class". He wrestled 97kg at worlds and won gold and bronze. He also wrestled 97kg at senior world team trials and took 3rd in Greco. If you need help converting that is 213lbs.
Weights were added to the badger's roster page! I'm guessing depth looks something like this?
125 – Barnett/Rotondo
133 - Burwick
141 – Zargo/Dentino/Bavery/Severin
149 – Gomez/Medora/Carroll
157 – Model/Scharenbrock/Meicher/Anderson/Anderson/Hughes
165 – Hamiti/Otto/Model
174 – McNally/Dow/Lantz/Calhoun
184 – Weiler/Sanders
197 – Amos/Empey
285 – Hillger/Christensen/Salemme/Schmidtke
The plot thickens ;) I asked Bono on Twitter if the WrestleStat lineup was accurate for next week's Jump Around. Hopefully he can give us some direction on the lighter weights but I would think the UW roster page should be more accurate. We are 21 days out from the first dual meet so I don't see why he wouldn't share who was expected to start.
Quote from: Harris on October 11, 2021, 07:04:49 PM
The plot thickens ;) I asked Bono on Twitter if the WrestleStat lineup was accurate for next week's Jump Around. Hopefully he can give us some direction on the lighter weights but I would think the UW roster page should be more accurate. We are 21 days out from the first dual meet so I don't see why he wouldn't share who was expected to start.
It makes sense to me if Barnett would redshirt. I wonder how much thought that has been given?
Quote from: rjchev141 on October 11, 2021, 08:50:34 PM
Quote from: Harris on October 11, 2021, 07:04:49 PM
The plot thickens ;) I asked Bono on Twitter if the WrestleStat lineup was accurate for next week's Jump Around. Hopefully he can give us some direction on the lighter weights but I would think the UW roster page should be more accurate. We are 21 days out from the first dual meet so I don't see why he wouldn't share who was expected to start.
It makes sense to me if Barnett would redshirt. I wonder how much thought that has been given?
125 is going to be so tough and very deep, 3 of top 5 sat out last year, Glory, Vito and Suriano, all 3 are contenders even with Spencer Lee there.
That'll be a weight to watch this season. I'd still pick Lee to win it; but what a hornet's nest. I wasn't even aware that Lee was a RS senior. Holy crap.
I would also like to see Barnett redshirt.
He'll do what's best for him, he may not do what you would like.
The season will be fun. over-analyzing isn't fun. Keep on.
GO Badgers.
Quote from: onwisconsin on October 13, 2021, 12:53:42 PM
I would also like to see Barnett redshirt.
I didn't say I'd like to see him redshirt. As a fan, I want to see him compete. I'm just speculating that it is being considered by those making that decision. If it is going to happen in Barnett's career, the time is now. From Barnett's perspective, it makes sense to me. From Rotondo's perspective, that has a huge impact on his end to his career. From the coaches' perspective, you potentially get 4 more high quality seasons at 125 versus 3. The only reason I see to wrestle Barnett is if he is clearly ahead of Rotondo and the goal is to put the best team on the mat period.
Over-analyzing can be fun.
The coaching staff has been here for awhile and we have yet to put our best team on the mat, for various reasons (COVID, etc). At some point, you have to. I want the best guys at all the weights going...except Hamiti if he is not ready to be a top 10ish wrestler.
Super excited for November 1st. Can't wait to get going.
Quote from: Harris on October 13, 2021, 07:44:28 PM
Super excited for November 1st. Can't wait to get going.
+1
I hope the Jump Around on Monday addresses the projected starters. WrestleStat updated starters:
125 – Barnett
133 - Burwick
141 – Dentino
149 – Gomez
157 – Model
165 – Otto
174 – McNally
184 – Weiler
197 – Amos
285 – Hillger
Harris, with that lineup how do you think the Badgers fair in the Big Ten? I see some great strengths but also some glaring holes that need work on
Quote from: Harris on October 16, 2021, 09:02:41 AM
I hope the Jump Around on Monday addresses the projected starters. WrestleStat updated starters:
125 – Barnett
133 - Burwick
141 – Dentino
149 – Gomez
157 – Model
165 – Otto
174 – McNally
184 – Weiler
197 – Amos
285 – Hillger
Maybe the true freshmen will redshirt pending success at Midlands.
Quote from: dad 2 5 on October 16, 2021, 10:04:51 AM
Harris, with that lineup how do you think the Badgers fair in the Big Ten? I see some great strengths but also some glaring holes that need work on
I think the Big Ten is going to be tough regardless, but I think the Badgers have a favorable Big Ten Schedule this year since they don't wrestle Penn State, Ohio State or Michigan. I'm thinking WrestleStat would probably put them at 4-4 in the Big Ten right now. I am more optimistic than that but that's why they wrestle the matches. Iowa and Nebraska are tough matchups with Rutgers and Minnesota presenting some big challenges as well. I think they are expected to beat Northwestern, Maryland, Purdue, and Illinois.
11/1 Wisconsin Buffalo Wrestle Stat Prediction
125 (19)Eric Barnett (So) (65) Tristan Daugherty (Fr) W
133 (26) Kyle Burwick (F) (21) Derek Spann (Sr) W
141 (143) Dominic Dentino (So)(77) Ben Freeman (Jr) L
149 (7) Austin Gomez (Jr) (112) John Arceri (Sr) W
157 (51) Garret Model (Jr) (27) Michael Petite (So) L
165 (117) Josh Otto (Fr) (98) Ty Raines (Fr) L
174 (7) Andrew McNally (Sr) (120) Guiseppe Hoose (So) W
184 (22) Chris Weiler (Sr) (79) Peter Acciardi (So) W
197 (106) Braxton Amos (Fr) (86) Sam Mitchell (Fr) L
285 (7) Trent Hillger (Jr) (50) Toby Cahill (Jr) W
Team Score 23-13 with Braxton as the underdog! I am predicting Braxton wins. I also predict either Josh Otto or Dominic Dentino gets back on track and wins one or both of those matches if this is the line up. I think the most interesting match ups are at 133 and 157. WrestleStat is predicting Burwick to beat the higher ranked wrestler based on their common results. I think this would be a great win for Burwick. Personally, I think Model can beat Petite based on their common results. That should be a great match.
Quote from: Harris on October 16, 2021, 07:24:36 PM
11/1 Wisconsin Buffalo Wrestle Stat Prediction
125 (19)Eric Barnett (So) (65) Tristan Daugherty (Fr) W
133 (26) Kyle Burwick (F) (21) Derek Spann (Sr) W
141 (143) Dominic Dentino (So)(77) Ben Freeman (Jr) L
149 (7) Austin Gomez (Jr) (112) John Arceri (Sr) W
157 (51) Garret Model (Jr) (27) Michael Petite (So) L
165 (117) Josh Otto (Fr) (98) Ty Raines (Fr) L
174 (7) Andrew McNally (Sr) (120) Guiseppe Hoose (So) W
184 (22) Chris Weiler (Sr) (79) Peter Acciardi (So) W
197 (106) Braxton Amos (Fr) (86) Sam Mitchell (Fr) L
285 (7) Trent Hillger (Jr) (50) Toby Cahill (Jr) W
Team Score 23-13 with Braxton as the underdog! I am predicting Braxton wins. I also predict either Josh Otto or Dominic Dentino gets back on track and wins one or both of those matches if this is the line up. I think the most interesting match ups are at 133 and 157. WrestleStat is predicting Burwick to beat the higher ranked wrestler based on their common results. I think this would be a great win for Burwick. Personally, I think Model can beat Petite based on their common results. That should be a great match.
I think it goes 27-12 Badgers
Well, I guess we now know what happened to Hayden Copass. He just posted on Twitter he is going to Purdue :o
https://twitter.com/copass59/status/1449871317407346690 (https://twitter.com/copass59/status/1449871317407346690)
I'm happy for Copass... he can have success.
Badgers #1
Too bad. That said, if Hillger decides to wrestle 2 more years with the free year last year, i can see why Copass would look elsewhere. I am not sure what we are giving Christensen for acholarship $, but i am not sure how we could givr a lot to Copass for 2 years while having both Hillger and Christensen.
Quote from: mkm13 on October 17, 2021, 08:40:06 PM
Too bad. That said, if Hillger decides to wrestle 2 more years with the free year last year, i can see why Copass would look elsewhere. I am not sure what we are giving Christensen for acholarship $, but i am not sure how we could givr a lot to Copass for 2 years while having both Hillger and Christensen.
Also have Empey as well. Competition in the HWT class. Wish Copass luck, but maybe he didn't want to try and beat our Christensen and Empey.
Quote from: wrastle63 on October 18, 2021, 08:46:32 AM
Quote from: mkm13 on October 17, 2021, 08:40:06 PM
Too bad. That said, if Hillger decides to wrestle 2 more years with the free year last year, i can see why Copass would look elsewhere. I am not sure what we are giving Christensen for acholarship $, but i am not sure how we could givr a lot to Copass for 2 years while having both Hillger and Christensen.
Also have Empey as well. Competition in the HWT class. Wish Copass luck, but maybe he didn't want to try and beat our Christensen and Empey.
I have a hard time thinking he wouldn't be able to beat Christensen or Empey. He should have a big size advantage on Empey and I am not sure if Christensen has won a BIG 10 match in his career.
Quote from: tigerking on October 18, 2021, 10:30:05 AM
Quote from: wrastle63 on October 18, 2021, 08:46:32 AM
Quote from: mkm13 on October 17, 2021, 08:40:06 PM
Too bad. That said, if Hillger decides to wrestle 2 more years with the free year last year, i can see why Copass would look elsewhere. I am not sure what we are giving Christensen for acholarship $, but i am not sure how we could givr a lot to Copass for 2 years while having both Hillger and Christensen.
Also have Empey as well. Competition in the HWT class. Wish Copass luck, but maybe he didn't want to try and beat our Christensen and Empey.
I have a hard time thinking he wouldn't be able to beat Christensen or Empey. He should have a big size advantage on Empey and I am not sure if Christensen has won a BIG 10 match in his career.
Neither has Copass.
Quote from: wrastle63 on October 18, 2021, 10:49:25 AM
Quote from: tigerking on October 18, 2021, 10:30:05 AM
Quote from: wrastle63 on October 18, 2021, 08:46:32 AM
Quote from: mkm13 on October 17, 2021, 08:40:06 PM
Too bad. That said, if Hillger decides to wrestle 2 more years with the free year last year, i can see why Copass would look elsewhere. I am not sure what we are giving Christensen for acholarship $, but i am not sure how we could givr a lot to Copass for 2 years while having both Hillger and Christensen.
Also have Empey as well. Competition in the HWT class. Wish Copass luck, but maybe he didn't want to try and beat our Christensen and Empey.
I have a hard time thinking he wouldn't be able to beat Christensen or Empey. He should have a big size advantage on Empey and I am not sure if Christensen has won a BIG 10 match in his career.
Neither has Copass.
Regardless, I think this transfer hurts, but was something that seemed like a possibility from the beginning when looking at the amount of scholarship money is tied up in the upper weights and the possibility of him not starting for several years.
From Bono:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QC1u-swDWy8
Both Burwkick and Rotondo are battling it out for 133. Neither have plans to go to 141. 141 will be either Zargo or Dentino. It would be a bit discouraging if a healthy Zargo does not beat Dentino since Dentino went winless last year.
Quote from: mkm13 on October 18, 2021, 02:12:45 PM
From Bono:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QC1u-swDWy8
Both Burwkick and Rotondo are battling it out for 133. Neither have plans to go to 141. 141 will be either Zargo or Dentino. It would be a bit discouraging if a healthy Zargo does not beat Dentino since Dentino went winless last year.
Really hoping Zargo makes a big jump this year. Could give the dual team a boost if he can step in and win some matches.
Did I miss Jump Around Monday?
It will be interesting how the Burwick/Rotundo battle ends up. Bono talks very highly of Rotundo again and talked about his big improvement.
I don't really understand the battle at 141 between Zargo and Dentino. If for some reason Zargo can't win the spot, I have to believe the loser of Burwick/Rotundo at 133 can beat Dentino. Nothing against Dentino, but he was 0-10 last year and his closest match was when he was shut out 4-0. It would be nice if whoever was at 141 had a chance of winning a big 10 match this year and was not basically an automatic loss.
Otto/Hamiti is also interesting. Otto was also winless last year as well, but he had many competitive matches against good wrestlers. Otto either needs to make a jump offensively, or hopefully Hamiti is ready to go.
Hopefully Weiler is fully recovered from his surgery. If he is, and Hamiti does wrestle, 165-HWT is a pretty impressive.
Quote from: mkm13 on October 26, 2021, 06:46:35 AM
It will be interesting how the Burwick/Rotundo battle ends up. Bono talks very highly of Rotundo again and talked about his big improvement.
I don't really understand the battle at 141 between Zargo and Dentino. If for some reason Zargo can't win the spot, I have to believe the loser of Burwick/Rotundo at 133 can beat Dentino. Nothing against Dentino, but he was 0-10 last year and his closest match was when he was shut out 4-0. It would be nice if whoever was at 141 had a chance of winning a big 10 match this year and was not basically an automatic loss.
Otto/Hamiti is also interesting. Otto was also winless last year as well, but he had many competitive matches against good wrestlers. Otto either needs to make a jump offensively, or hopefully Hamiti is ready to go.
Hopefully Weiler is fully recovered from his surgery. If he is, and Hamiti does wrestle, 165-HWT is a pretty impressive.
I would have to imagine they wrestle Dentino and Otto against Buffalo and give Rotondo/Burwick time to settle itself out and let Zargo/Hamiti wrestle at opens to start. Allows all the guys to get matches, but doesn't burn a redshirt right away. If Zargo/Hamiti are the best guy for the weight they burn it and let them go, but obviously the coaches see what is happening in the room every day. I am just coaching from home.
Zargo is already a year out of high school, so I wasn't envisioning he would redshirt, especially with the big hole at 141. But I guess if he is not ready, redshirting would be an option.
Having said that, every scholarship has value. If a guy is given a decent amount of scholarship money and is not significantly better than what we had last year at 141 a year out of high school, is it worth having them redshirt and tying up the scholarship an extra year? I am not saying this is the case here, just getting back to my point of not understanding Destino potentially being the guy at 141.
Quote from: mkm13 on October 26, 2021, 09:32:32 AM
Zargo is already a year out of high school, so I wasn't envisioning he would redshirt, especially with the big hole at 141. But I guess if he is not ready, redshirting would be an option.
Having said that, every scholarship has value. If a guy is given a decent amount of scholarship money and is not significantly better than what we had last year at 141 a year out of high school, is it worth having them redshirt and tying up the scholarship an extra year? I am not saying this is the case here, just getting back to my point of not understanding Destino potentially being the guy at 141.
I am just saying if they want to use both Burwick/Rotondo at 33/41 then it would make a lot of sense to not burn Zargo's redshirt for a dual against Buffalo, Little Rock, and a couple opens. If Zargo is better than Burwick/Rotondo at 41 then wrestle Zargo right away.
What do you guys think about how Ohio State is doing public wrestle offs and posting the results on twitter? I think it is kind of cool and old school letting the fans see the competition for a starting spot. That would make for a good jump around Monday. Broadcast a live wrestle off for 141 and 165.
Quote from: Harris on October 26, 2021, 05:09:02 PM
What do you guys think about how Ohio State is doing public wrestle offs and posting the results on twitter? I think it is kind of cool and old school letting the fans see the competition for a starting spot. That would make for a good jump around Monday. Broadcast a live wrestle off for 141 and 165.
I miss those from a few years ago at the field house
Quote from: dad 2 5 on October 26, 2021, 06:40:45 PM
Quote from: Harris on October 26, 2021, 05:09:02 PM
What do you guys think about how Ohio State is doing public wrestle offs and posting the results on twitter? I think it is kind of cool and old school letting the fans see the competition for a starting spot. That would make for a good jump around Monday. Broadcast a live wrestle off for 141 and 165.
I miss those from a few years ago at the field house
I miss them too but completely understand the argument for not letting wrestle offs decide the lineup. The familiarity and style matchup of your teammates really make a wrestle off a questionable way to decide the lineup and I support the coaches using other criteria to make that decision
I sort of understand it too...to a point. But...a BIG but, how often, if ever, has a person consistently lost a wrestle off, but went on to out perform, CONSISTENTLY, the person who they lost the wrestle offs to? To me the "familiarity" conversation works both ways...sure wrestler's get familiar with each other and what their tendencies are, but if one figures it out and beats the other person every time, doesn't that also say something about the kid that looses...ie., why can't they figure out how to win? If they truly were "better" they would figure out a way to beat their teammate.
I personally would run multiple wrestle offs if two athletes are close, and then let those wrestle offs and the results of opens determine who the starter would be, including other more subjective things like, being a leader, competitiveness, team needs, contribution to the team, moral, etc. But with all that being said, if wrestler A can consistently beat wrestler B, then wrestler A should be the starter. That is the beauty of wrestling if you ask me.
If you win the wrestle off you earn the spot.
Quote from: Harris on August 28, 2021, 04:06:16 PM
I don't think Braxton Amos has ever been ranked 112th in anything in his life before and I don't think you will ever see it again ;). I am going to take some time to enjoy this historical moment.
Gee-wizz. Now I'm worried he may not make the Big 10 tournament. Lol 😆
Welcome Amosfan. We're all Amosfan's here (except maybe a few usernames for the same guy who likely uses a pick instead of a comb and is still reeling from that surprise knee to the face).
Wrestlestat has an excuse, it's a computer program designed for a very specific purpose.
197 is going to be the toughest weight class in NCAA this year. I doubt that anyone gets through undefeated. Braxton is #7 at the senior level in freestyle and #2 in Greco but
He isn't ranked in the top 33 in the ncaa 197 with Flo & Intermat (and they purportedly pay someone to think about these things). Insomnia hit last night so I started searching for results.
Here's a link to a matchup between Braxton and one of the guys both Flo and Intermat have ranked. Not sure which is more laughable: Braxton being unranked or the stalling call when he was up by a bunch?
https://www.flowrestling.org/video/6283671-220-lbs-amos-vs-smith
Braxton is a Program Changing individual. A better person than he is wrestler, I can't wait to see all the positivity and production he brings to our Badgers.
Let's sit back and enjoy the ride!
Amos hasn't stepped foot on a college mat yet. When he trips off a few wins you will see him shed the 112 ranking really quick and move into a single digit rank without a doubt. Heck he might move in after his first win.
Relax people gabe steveson had a low rank before he stepped onto the mat also but then he moved to top 3 real quick.
Amos is going to be a real good one for the badgers for sure. The one thing I wonder and wonder out loud is he maybe the first person that wrestles 197 in college but on the senior level maybe a 202 or 213 pounder. That is an interesting way to attack the senior level. Let's hope Amos attacks it well.
Quote from: littleguy301 on October 28, 2021, 02:03:18 PM
Amos hasn't stepped foot on a college mat yet. When he trips off a few wins you will see him shed the 112 ranking really quick and move into a single digit rank without a doubt. Heck he might move in after his first win.
Relax people gabe steveson had a low rank before he stepped onto the mat also but then he moved to top 3 real quick.
Amos is going to be a real good one for the badgers for sure. The one thing I wonder and wonder out loud is he maybe the first person that wrestles 197 in college but on the senior level maybe a 202 or 213 pounder. That is an interesting way to attack the senior level. Let's hope Amos attacks it well.
His name was Kyle Snyder
Quote from: wrastle63 on October 28, 2021, 03:56:11 PM
Quote from: littleguy301 on October 28, 2021, 02:03:18 PM
Amos hasn't stepped foot on a college mat yet. When he trips off a few wins you will see him shed the 112 ranking really quick and move into a single digit rank without a doubt. Heck he might move in after his first win.
Relax people gabe steveson had a low rank before he stepped onto the mat also but then he moved to top 3 real quick.
Amos is going to be a real good one for the badgers for sure. The one thing I wonder and wonder out loud is he maybe the first person that wrestles 197 in college but on the senior level maybe a 202 or 213 pounder. That is an interesting way to attack the senior level. Let's hope Amos attacks it well.
His name was Kyle Snyder
?? I believe Snyder moved up to hwt for 3 years.
Quote from: littleguy301 on November 03, 2021, 01:42:39 PM
Quote from: wrastle63 on October 28, 2021, 03:56:11 PM
Quote from: littleguy301 on October 28, 2021, 02:03:18 PM
Amos hasn't stepped foot on a college mat yet. When he trips off a few wins you will see him shed the 112 ranking really quick and move into a single digit rank without a doubt. Heck he might move in after his first win.
Relax people gabe steveson had a low rank before he stepped onto the mat also but then he moved to top 3 real quick.
Amos is going to be a real good one for the badgers for sure. The one thing I wonder and wonder out loud is he maybe the first person that wrestles 197 in college but on the senior level maybe a 202 or 213 pounder. That is an interesting way to attack the senior level. Let's hope Amos attacks it well.
His name was Kyle Snyder
?? I believe Snyder moved up to hwt for 3 years.
Jake Varner was a 2 time NCAA runner up at 184 before moving up to 197 and becoming a 2 time champ. He made the world team after is junior year at 96 kg and of course went on to Olympic gold in 2012 at 96kg.
Quote from: vsmf2010 on November 03, 2021, 03:58:05 PM
Quote from: littleguy301 on November 03, 2021, 01:42:39 PM
Quote from: wrastle63 on October 28, 2021, 03:56:11 PM
Quote from: littleguy301 on October 28, 2021, 02:03:18 PM
Amos hasn't stepped foot on a college mat yet. When he trips off a few wins you will see him shed the 112 ranking really quick and move into a single digit rank without a doubt. Heck he might move in after his first win.
Relax people gabe steveson had a low rank before he stepped onto the mat also but then he moved to top 3 real quick.
Amos is going to be a real good one for the badgers for sure. The one thing I wonder and wonder out loud is he maybe the first person that wrestles 197 in college but on the senior level maybe a 202 or 213 pounder. That is an interesting way to attack the senior level. Let's hope Amos attacks it well.
His name was Kyle Snyder
?? I believe Snyder moved up to hwt for 3 years.
Jake Varner was a 2 time NCAA runner up at 184 before moving up to 197 and becoming a 2 time champ. He made the world team after is junior year at 96 kg and of course went on to Olympic gold in 2012 at 96kg.
Varner won in 2009 and 2010. Maybe your thinking Jordan Burroughs.
Not ripping because I want Amos to do great. Maybe he goes 92kg next spring for senior level and works his way up for 2024.
All I am saying itnis a different approach
Quote from: littleguy301 on November 04, 2021, 04:18:22 PM
Quote from: vsmf2010 on November 03, 2021, 03:58:05 PM
Quote from: littleguy301 on November 03, 2021, 01:42:39 PM
Quote from: wrastle63 on October 28, 2021, 03:56:11 PM
Quote from: littleguy301 on October 28, 2021, 02:03:18 PM
Amos hasn't stepped foot on a college mat yet. When he trips off a few wins you will see him shed the 112 ranking really quick and move into a single digit rank without a doubt. Heck he might move in after his first win.
Relax people gabe steveson had a low rank before he stepped onto the mat also but then he moved to top 3 real quick.
Amos is going to be a real good one for the badgers for sure. The one thing I wonder and wonder out loud is he maybe the first person that wrestles 197 in college but on the senior level maybe a 202 or 213 pounder. That is an interesting way to attack the senior level. Let's hope Amos attacks it well.
His name was Kyle Snyder
?? I believe Snyder moved up to hwt for 3 years.
Jake Varner was a 2 time NCAA runner up at 184 before moving up to 197 and becoming a 2 time champ. He made the world team after is junior year at 96 kg and of course went on to Olympic gold in 2012 at 96kg.
Varner won in 2009 and 2010. Maybe your thinking Jordan Burroughs.
Not ripping because I want Amos to do great. Maybe he goes 92kg next spring for senior level and works his way up for 2024.
All I am saying itnis a different approach
Which part of my Jake Varner information are you disputing?
Quote from: vsmf2010 on November 05, 2021, 10:09:40 AM
Quote from: littleguy301 on November 04, 2021, 04:18:22 PM
Quote from: vsmf2010 on November 03, 2021, 03:58:05 PM
Quote from: littleguy301 on November 03, 2021, 01:42:39 PM
Quote from: wrastle63 on October 28, 2021, 03:56:11 PM
Quote from: littleguy301 on October 28, 2021, 02:03:18 PM
Amos hasn't stepped foot on a college mat yet. When he trips off a few wins you will see him shed the 112 ranking really quick and move into a single digit rank without a doubt. Heck he might move in after his first win.
Relax people gabe steveson had a low rank before he stepped onto the mat also but then he moved to top 3 real quick.
Amos is going to be a real good one for the badgers for sure. The one thing I wonder and wonder out loud is he maybe the first person that wrestles 197 in college but on the senior level maybe a 202 or 213 pounder. That is an interesting way to attack the senior level. Let's hope Amos attacks it well.
His name was Kyle Snyder
?? I believe Snyder moved up to hwt for 3 years.
Jake Varner was a 2 time NCAA runner up at 184 before moving up to 197 and becoming a 2 time champ. He made the world team after is junior year at 96 kg and of course went on to Olympic gold in 2012 at 96kg.
Varner won in 2009 and 2010. Maybe your thinking Jordan Burroughs.
Not ripping because I want Amos to do great. Maybe he goes 92kg next spring for senior level and works his way up for 2024.
All I am saying itnis a different approach
Which part of my Jake Varner information are you disputing?
Nothing. It was me that got the info all messed up. I forgot about that 2009 team. Had it in my head it was 2010 and 2011 with the gold at 2012. Totally got my years all messed up and your are right and I was completely missing the boat, my bad and sorry.
Amos will not be the first to do that, darn it all!