Wisconsin’s injury list already had enough to worry about with starting tackle Kevin Heywood and starting guard Emerson Mandell sidelined along the right side of the offensive line. Now, with just two practices left in fall camp, another starter has landed on the radar: safety Marvin Burks Jr.
Burks, the Missouri transfer, was spotted injured during Badgers On SI’s look at fall camp practice No. 13, though he was still wearing his helmet, cleats and other gear. After practice, defensive coordinator Mike Tressel was asked about the issue and initially launched into a long answer about Burks’ importance as a leader on the defense. When pressed again, Tressel finally said:
“I think you’ll see Marvin have a little splint on soon, and rocking and rolling. Like, soon.”
That doesn’t sound like a staff that’s overly alarmed, even if the injury is worth watching. Wisconsin may be hoping Burks’ situation is minor, but it’s still another name to monitor as the Badgers get closer to their primetime matchup with Notre Dame at Lambeau Field.
The bigger picture for Wisconsin is that the safety room appears more prepared than it was a year ago. If a starter has to miss time, the Badgers shouldn’t be forced to lean on a transfer from the FCS or D-III ranks to fill the gap.
If Burks is unavailable, Carson Van Dinter looks like the most obvious next man up. The Iowa State transfer got real game experience in Ames last fall, and his blend of speed and physicality makes him the strongest option to step in.
Cairo Skanes is another possibility. The versatile defensive back logged 80 snaps as a true freshman last season and got a taste of Big Ten football. His ability to line up in different spots helped him earn early playing time, though Van Dinter still seems to have the edge for a full-time starting role.
Matthew Traynor is still in the mix as well. The former Richmond transfer was dealing with an injury early in camp, but he has gotten healthier and has made some plays over the back half of fall camp.
Even with that depth, Burks would be the most significant loss if Wisconsin had to play without him. His experience and production stand above the rest of the room. Still, the Badgers look better equipped this fall to survive a hit at safety than they did before.
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