Badgers Backup QB Battle Rages On: Locke vs. Mettauer

Published in Sports and Competition on Monday, August 11th 2025 at 10:01 GMT by Sports Illustrated
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At some point in the season, the University of Wisconsin football team has learned this lesson the hard way: you'd better have more than one quarterback ready t

Wisconsin Badgers Backup QB Competition Remains Unsettled Deep into Fall Camp

As the Wisconsin Badgers football team progresses through fall camp, the battle for the backup quarterback position behind starter Tyler Van Dyke continues to be one of the most intriguing storylines. With the season opener against Western Michigan looming on August 30, head coach Luke Fickell and offensive coordinator Phil Longo have yet to name a clear No. 2 signal-caller, leaving the competition between redshirt sophomore Braedyn Locke and true freshman Mabry Mettauer wide open. This uncertainty underscores the depth and potential at the position, but it also highlights the challenges in solidifying the pecking order as the team aims to rebound from a disappointing 7-6 campaign in 2023.

Tyler Van Dyke, the experienced transfer from Miami, has firmly established himself as the starter after a spring and summer where he demonstrated poise, arm strength, and leadership. Van Dyke's arrival was a significant boost for the Badgers, who struggled with quarterback inconsistency last season under former starter Tanner Mordecai. Van Dyke brings a proven track record, having thrown for over 7,000 yards and 54 touchdowns in his college career, and his ability to command the huddle has been praised by coaches and teammates alike. However, the focus has shifted to who will be ready to step in if needed, given the physical demands of the Big Ten schedule and the ever-present risk of injury.

Braedyn Locke, who saw action in five games last season as a redshirt freshman, entered fall camp as the presumed frontrunner for the backup role. Locke, a product of Rockwall High School in Texas, showed flashes of potential in limited opportunities, completing 50 of 102 passes for 777 yards, five touchdowns, and just one interception. His most notable performance came in a start against Illinois, where he threw for 240 yards and a touchdown in a narrow loss. Locke's familiarity with Longo's Air Raid offense, which emphasizes quick reads and spreading the ball around, has been a key asset. Throughout camp, Locke has been commended for his improved decision-making and pocket presence. In a recent scrimmage, he led a drive that resulted in a touchdown, showcasing his ability to connect on intermediate routes and manage the game clock effectively. Offensive coordinator Phil Longo noted in a press conference that Locke's growth has been evident, saying, "Braedyn has taken steps forward in understanding the nuances of our system. He's more comfortable, and that's translating to better execution on the field."

Challenging Locke is Mabry Mettauer, a highly touted true freshman from The Woodlands, Texas, who arrived on campus with significant hype. Mettauer, a four-star recruit ranked among the top quarterbacks in the 2024 class, chose Wisconsin over offers from programs like Baylor and TCU. Standing at 6-foot-5 and 220 pounds, Mettauer possesses the prototypical size and arm talent that could make him a future star in the Big Ten. His high school career was marked by impressive stats, including over 3,000 passing yards and 40 touchdowns in his senior year, leading his team to a state championship appearance. In fall camp, Mettauer has turned heads with his raw athleticism and willingness to learn. During open practices, he's demonstrated a strong arm on deep throws and mobility that allows him to extend plays outside the pocket. However, as a freshman, he's still adjusting to the speed and complexity of college football. Longo has been effusive in his praise, stating, "Mabry is picking things up quickly. He's got that 'it' factor you look for in a quarterback. The competition is pushing both him and Braedyn to elevate their games."

The unsettled nature of the backup competition stems from several factors observed in camp. Scrimmages have been competitive, with both quarterbacks splitting reps with the second-team offense. In one notable session, Locke orchestrated a two-minute drill that ended in a field goal, while Mettauer responded with a scoring drive of his own, highlighted by a 30-yard completion on a scramble. Neither has pulled away decisively, leading Fickell to emphasize the importance of consistency and mental toughness. "We're not rushing this decision," Fickell said after a recent practice. "Both guys are capable, and we're evaluating them in every scenario—live reps, film study, leadership in meetings. The goal is to have someone ready who can win games if called upon."

This quarterback room dynamic is part of a broader effort to revamp the Badgers' offense under Longo's guidance. After ranking near the bottom of the Big Ten in passing efficiency last season, Wisconsin is leaning into a more explosive, pass-heavy scheme. Van Dyke's presence stabilizes the top spot, but the backup battle reflects the program's investment in developing depth. Locke brings experience and a steady hand, having already navigated the pressures of Big Ten play, while Mettauer offers upside and a higher ceiling, potentially accelerating his timeline if he continues to impress.

Teammates have weighed in on the competition, with wide receiver Will Pauling noting the positive energy it brings. "It's making everyone better," Pauling said. "Braedyn's been solid, and Mabry's got that freshman fire. Whoever wins, we'll be in good hands." Running back Chez Mellusi echoed similar sentiments, highlighting how the quarterbacks' performances have energized the entire unit during camp drills.

As fall camp winds down, the Badgers have one more scrimmage scheduled before shifting focus to game planning. Fickell has indicated that a decision could come soon, but he's open to letting the competition extend into the early weeks of the season if necessary. This approach aligns with his philosophy of earning roles through performance, a hallmark of his tenure at Cincinnati before joining Wisconsin.

Ultimately, the unresolved backup quarterback competition adds an element of intrigue to a Wisconsin team looking to contend in the expanded Big Ten. With a tough slate including matchups against Alabama, USC, and Penn State, having reliable options behind Van Dyke is crucial. Whether Locke solidifies his position with his experience or Mettauer bursts onto the scene with his talent, the Badgers' quarterback depth could be a defining factor in their pursuit of a return to prominence. As camp continues, all eyes remain on these two young quarterbacks, each vying to be the next in line for one of college football's storied programs.

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