Wisconsin adds former RB as temporary coach for Las Vegas Bowl

Wisconsin is preparing to take on Arizona State in the Las Vegas Bowl as the Badgers could be without one of their main coaches. 247Sports reporter Evan Flood reported that running backs coach Gary Brown did not make the trip to Las Vegas with the team as he is reportedly dealing with a non-COVID-related health problem.

In his spot, former Wisconsin running back Garrett Groshek is serving as the temporary coach of the running back for the bowl game. There is potential that Brown could join the team at some point, but head coach Paul Chryst wants Brown to be healthy.

Running backs coach Gary Brown did not make the trip to Las Vegas. It's not covid related, but is due to his health.

Former UW tailback Garrett Groshek will take his place as a temporary coach.

There's a chance Brown could arrive later in the week per UW official. #Badgers

— Evan Flood (@Evan_Flood) December 27, 2021

#Badgers coach Paul Chryst said Garrett Groshek was at practice in Madison when UW learned Gary Brown might not be available. Groshek was all-in. Brown doing OK and issue not related to previous battle with cancer. Chryst said they just want Brown healthy.

— Jeff Potrykus (@jaypo1961) December 28, 2021

Groshek was a long-time running back for Wisconsin from 2016 to 2020. During his time at Wisconsin, Groshek rushed for 1,216 yards and 7 touchdowns on 235 carries.

Wisconsin is coming into this game versus Arizona State with the 14^th ranked rushing offense in the nation as the Badgers have averaged 215.4 rushing yards per game. A big reason for Wisconsin’s success stems from the emergence of Braelon Allen in the backfield this season.