Bart Houston, a fifth-year senior from California, will take the first snap in the Badgers’ season opener against LSU on September 3 at Lambeau Field, UW coach Paul Chryst announced Thursday.
Advertisement
UW Wisconsin’s director of video services, Chris Hall, spoke with Chryst Thurs. about his decision to name Houston as the starting quarterback over sophomore Alex Hornibrook.
He was a backup to Joel Stave the last few seasons, and appeared in 15 games overall. Obviously Wisconsin will continue to rely on their running backs, namely Corey Clement. Houston, who is the only quarterback on the roster to have played in a college game, will make the first start of his career against LSU. He was 22 of 33 for 232 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions against IL in relief of starter Joel Stave previous year.
“I wanted to get it done as we begin our preparation for LSU and make sure everyone knew where we were at with it internally”, Chryst said. Houston unofficially completed 18 of 27 passes for 212 yards, while Hornibrook finished 16-of-29 for 143 yards. “It’s just me answering them instead of the old guy”.
Houston is the most experienced quarterback on the roster.
However, Houston regrouped and played well in the second scrimmage and throughout the remainder of camp. I felt both did that. “I’m excited to move forward now…”
Advertisement
After having the day off Thursday, practice resumes on Friday with the focus on the season opener. So I kind of followed that line…
