Bobby Engram shares thoughts on Paul Chryst firing at Wisconsin
Bobby Engram might be happy with the way Wisconsin’s offense looked in Saturday’s win over Northwestern, but it came at the cost of saying goodbye to a close friend.
Engram, Wisconsin’s OC, was honest when asked about Paul Chryst’s firing last week following the Badgers’ loss to Illinois. A tad emotional, Engram said he had built a close relationship with the longtime coach, but also understood that change is a crucial part of the business in today’s game.
“He mentored me to get this opportunity to be able to call plays,” Engram said, via Jeff Potrykus. “It was a tough deal, but we understand the business side of this sport. I thought everybody in this building did a great job of rallying.”
#Badgers Bobby Engram, but he got a bit emotional today on Paul Chryst: "He mentored me to get this opportunity to be able to call plays. It was a tough deal, but we understand the business side of this sport. I thought everybody in this building did a great job of rallying."
— Jeff Potrykus (@jaypo1961) October 11, 2022
Chryst was fired after a 2-3 start to begin the season in Madison. Defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard was named interim head coach and is expected to be given a fair shot to win the title permanently under new athletic director Chris McIntosh.
Last week, the Badgers’ offense played their best game of the season against Northwestern at Ryan Field. Quarterback Graham Mertz threw for a season-high 5 touchdowns to go along with 299 yards passing. Running back Braelon Allen totaled 135 rushing yards off 23 carries.