Should the Wisconsin Badgers Shift Star RT Riley Mahlman to Left Tackle to Fix O-Line Issues?
Some Wisconsin Badgers fans are already speculating online about a possible shake-up on the offensive line after a recent practice photo showed standout right tackle Riley Mahlman lining up on the opposite side of the formation.
As the Badgers try to solidify their best starting five ahead of Big Ten play, head coach Luke Fickell may have to consider some bold adjustments. Although there’s been talk about moving left guard Joe Brunner out to tackle, an alternative could be flipping Mahlman from right tackle to left tackle—a position often considered the most crucial on the line.
There’s no confirmation that the coaching staff is making the switch for Week 2 against Middle Tennessee State, but the photo suggests they’re at least exploring different configurations.
With the offensive line under scrutiny, Wisconsin’s main goal is to get its top five linemen on the field. If current left tackle Davis Heinzen isn’t holding up his end, coaches need to identify someone who can.
One possibility is redshirt senior JP Benzschawel, currently listed as the backup right tackle. Although he’s yet to start a game, he has stepped in at both guard positions and is among the most experienced reserves. At 6’7″ and 320 pounds, he has the size and positional flexibility that mirrors his older brother Beau Benzschawel, a former Badger who made it to the NFL.
Another option: redshirt junior Layton Nelson, who took a few snaps at left tackle late in the Week 1 win over Miami (OH). That late-game substitution suggests the staff is open to different looks.
Of course, the Badgers might choose to give Heinzen one more opportunity, especially against a Middle Tennessee State squad he should be able to handle. But if struggles persist, bigger changes—like moving Mahlman—may be on the table.
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