Badgers grades, snap counts on offense from Week 8 vs. USC: New starter earns highest grade on team
One new starter for the Badgers had a big season debut.
The Wisconsin Badgers secured a dominant 24-7 victory over the USC Trojans on October 24, 2026, at Camp Randall Stadium, bolstered by an impressive run game and formidable defense. This marked the team's third consecutive triumph in the Big Ten, improving their season record to 5-2, with their only loss coming against Michigan State.
The offense, particularly on the ground, proved crucial in controlling the game. Quarterback Colton Joseph, who completed 12 of 14 passes for 66 yards, logged a balanced 60 snaps and received a 58.7 PFF grade. He also contributed 13 carries for 43 yards without a costly turnover. Running backs Abu Sama III and Bryan Jackson II made significant impacts.
Sama, who returned from injury, earned a 68.6 grade with 71 yards on 17 carries, while Jackson, now the new right guard starter, added 38 yards and a touchdown on seven carries, earning a 68.5 grade. Wide receivers Chris Brooks Jr., Jaylon Domingeaux, Eugene Hilton Jr., and Tyrell Henry accounted for the remaining snaps, with Brooks Jr. contributing a standout 16-yard catch-and-run.
On defense, the Badgers stifled USC's offense effectively, while the offensive line underwent a notable change. Barrett Nelson, inserted at right guard, proved to be the team's highest-graded offensive player overall, cementing his position as the top lineman among those who played. The defense recorded only five pressures, while the offensive line's performance in the run game was instrumental in securing the win.
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