THESE IS THE BEST NEW WE HOPE FOR: Wisconsin Badgers football National Collegiate Athletic Association NCAA are overjoyed as head coach Luke Fickell makes Annoucement of making Quarter back Billy Edwards Jr. the new…see more

In a development that has electrified the Wisconsin Badgers football program and sent ripples of excitement through the NCAA landscape, Head Coach Luke Fickell has officially announced that **Billy Edwards Jr.**, the highly touted quarterback transfer from Maryland, will be the **starting quarterback** for the 2025 season.

The announcement came during a highly anticipated press conference at Camp Randall Stadium, where Coach Fickell addressed media, players, and fans about the decision that could redefine Wisconsin football for years to come. Cheers erupted across social media and inside the stadium when Fickell, flanked by his coaching staff and athletic director Chris McIntosh, uttered the words:

> “Billy Edwards Jr. will be our starting quarterback this fall. He’s earned it, and he’s ready.”

### **The Beginning of a New Era in Badger Football**

For a program long known for its power-running identity and stout defense, this decision signals a strategic shift. Billy Edwards Jr., known for his dual-threat capabilities and on-field intelligence, brings a new layer of versatility to the Badgers’ offense.

Fickell, entering his second full season at the helm, made it clear: this is not just about winning games—it’s about redefining what Wisconsin football looks like in the modern era.

> “We’ve had great quarterbacks come through this program, but Billy gives us something different—poise, mobility, and an edge,” Fickell said. “He’s a competitor, and he wants to lead.”

### **Who Is Billy Edwards Jr.?**

Billy Edwards Jr. is no stranger to the spotlight. A former four-star recruit out of Virginia, Edwards began his collegiate career at Wake Forest before transferring to Maryland, where he served as a backup and occasional starter behind Taulia Tagovailoa. Despite limited snaps, his performances were electrifying—highlighted by his breakout game against Rutgers in 2023 where he rushed for over 60 yards and passed for two touchdowns in under two quarters.

Now in Madison, Edwards has used spring camp and summer workouts to showcase his development as both a passer and leader. Sources close to the program said his work ethic was “relentless,” and his film study and leadership in team huddles quickly earned him respect.

> “I’m here to compete, but more importantly, I’m here to win,” Edwards said in a short but powerful speech following the announcement. “I’m grateful to Coach Fickell and this team for believing in me. Let’s go make history.”

### **The Decision-Making Process**

Fickell and offensive coordinator Phil Longo emphasized that the QB1 decision wasn’t made lightly. The Badgers had a strong quarterback room, including returning redshirt sophomore Braedyn Locke and freshman standout Miles Burkett. But Edwards’ command of the offense, improved accuracy, and ability to extend plays gave him the edge.

> “We told the team from the beginning—this would be a meritocracy. Billy won this job,” said Longo. “He’s not just athletic. He sees the field like a veteran, makes smart decisions under pressure, and elevates everyone around him.”

Insiders say Edwards began to separate himself during spring scrimmages, where he consistently made dynamic plays both in the air and on the ground. In a closed-door mock game earlier this month, he reportedly threw three touchdowns and rushed for one, all while avoiding turnovers.

### **Reactions: Fans, NCAA Analysts, and Players Rejoice**

Across Wisconsin, fans took to Twitter (now X), message boards, and sports radio to celebrate the news. The phrase “**QB1 Edwards**” trended within hours of the announcement.

Local sports personality **Bill Michaels** called it “the boldest and smartest move the Badgers have made since hiring Fickell.”

Even national media weighed in. ESPN analyst Kirk Herbstreit tweeted:

> “Watch out for Wisconsin this year. Billy Edwards Jr. has the talent and now the keys. Big Ten defenses, beware.”

His teammates were equally vocal in their support. Senior wide receiver **Will Pauling**, who caught passes from Edwards during offseason workouts, said:

> “He’s got it. He knows where to place the ball, and he brings swagger to the offense. This season’s going to be different.”

### **A New Offensive Identity in the Making**

With Phil Longo’s high-tempo, Air Raid-inspired offense now in its second season in Madison, Edwards Jr.’s skill set fits like a glove. Unlike the traditional Badger QBs of the past who primarily handed the ball off 30+ times a game, Edwards brings a dynamic dual-threat component that forces defenses to stay honest.

Fans can expect more run-pass options, designed QB runs, and downfield passing that hasn’t been a staple in Wisconsin football for decades.

> “We’re still going to be physical,” Fickell emphasized. “But with Billy, we add a layer of unpredictability that can put pressure on any defense.”

Insiders say several offensive packages have been designed specifically around Edwards’ mobility, and whispers suggest Fickell and Longo are looking to take shots early and often this season—particularly in the highly anticipated opener against Alabama.

### **Leadership On and Off the Field**

Beyond the playbook, Edwards has quickly become a team leader. He reportedly organized multiple off-campus team workouts, film sessions, and even hosted a Fourth of July barbecue at his apartment—an event players said built important chemistry.

Linebacker and team captain **Maema Njongmeta** noted, “Billy doesn’t act like the new guy. He acts like a Badger. You can’t teach that kind of leadership.”

He’s also made an impact in the community, visiting local Madison schools and attending a Badgers Kids Football Clinic just last week. Parents shared photos of their children with Edwards on social media, calling him “humble” and “already a role model.”

### **Looking Ahead: Big Ten and Beyond**

With Edwards under center, expectations have skyrocketed. The Badgers, coming off a 9-4 season, are now considered serious contenders in the Big Ten West—especially with the division’s looming elimination after 2025.

Wisconsin faces a tough schedule that includes road trips to Penn State and USC, but the coaching staff believes Edwards gives them a legitimate shot in every matchup.

Athletic Director Chris McIntosh echoed that sentiment, stating:

> “This isn’t just about 2025. This is the start of a new chapter. A quarterback like Billy can elevate an entire program—not just for one year, but for many to come.”

### **Final Thoughts: The Start of Something Special**

While the journey is just beginning for Billy Edwards Jr. in Madison, the tone has been set. There’s belief—not just in the quarterback, but in the direction of the program as a whole. From Luke Fickell’s leadership to Longo’s evolving offense, to Edwards’ emerging star power, the Badgers seem poised for something remarkable.