Wisconsin’s offense took a major hit last weekend, when starting quarterback Jack Coan sustained a non-contact injury to his right foot, sidelining him indefinitely. But a few highlights from the Badgers’ practices this week shows that redshirt freshman Graham Mertz is looking pretty strong.

Mertz is taking a majority of the snaps with the first-team offense in Coan’s absence. The former 4-star recruit saw limited action last season, but is ready to take over the starting job in 2020 with Coan sidelined.

A few highlights shared by Zach Heilprin of The Zone in Madison shows that Mertz appears to be stretching the field pretty well in practice.

For a redshirt freshman, Mertz is looking pretty sharp. The big question is whether or not it will translate to a game.

Mertz appeared in two games for the Badgers last season, completing 9-of-10 passes for 73 yards. He’s got the tools for success and now he’ll get the opportunity.

Wisconsin will open the season on Saturday, Oct. 24 against Illinois.