If you aren't excited about Wisconsin's 2023 lineup, you will be after I give the rundown.
Who's Returning & Leaving?
Only three guys are gone:
- 2x qualifier Kyle Burwick (133)
- 3x qualifier Andrew McNally (174)
- 4x qualifier Chris Weiler (184).
That means all four NCAA placers are back:
- Eric Barnett (8th, 7th at 125)
- Austin Gomez (4th at 149)
- Dean Hamiti (6th at 165)
- Trent Hillger (8th, 6th at 285)
Also in the mix is 2021 placer Taylor LaMont. He's transferring from Utah Valley and bumping up to 133.
New Starters & Freshmen
The Badgers need to fill spots at 174 and 184.
RS freshman Graham Calhoun seems likely to start at 174. He was a 3x Indiana state placer and went 13-10 last season.
At 184 expect Junior Tyler Dow to start. While he has struggled the past few seasons, he did have a tight match with Iowa's Nelson Brands back in 2019.
It's also possible that James Rowley, #32 overall recruit of 2022, challenges for 184. The Oregon native is a Cadet World silver medalist.
2023 Lineup Preview
Here's how I expect the team to look in 2023:
- 125. Eric Barnett (7th)
- 133. Taylor LaMont (*NQ at 125)
- 141. Joe Zargo (NQ)
- 149. Austin Gomez (4th)
- 157. Garrett Model (NQ)
- 165. Dean Hamiti (6th)
- 174. Graham Calhoun
- 184. Tyler Dow / James Rowley
- 197. Braxton Amos (NQ)
- 285. Trent Hillger (NQ)
What to Expect
Wisconsin has a stacked lineup.
The Badgers kick off the season with a Florida dual. In the Big Ten, I believe they'll be competitive against Nebraska, Ohio State, and Michigan.
On the national stage, they're right in the mix as a top 10 team (49 projected points).
Also, Gomez, Hamiti, and Hillger will all be aiming for titles. But their weights are tough!
Question for you: Can Dean Hamiti win 165 lbs this year?
Josiah Hritsko Wrestling Fan & Founder of Fanco Wrestling
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