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Wisconsin DC Jim Leonhard discusses strengths and weaknesses, blocking out outside noise

Paul Harvey

By Paul Harvey

Published:

Jim Leonhard has done a remarkable job with Wisconsin’s defense this season, helping the Badgers produce one of the most-improved marks in the country.

In 2018, Wisconsin slipped to an 8-5 record with a disappointing year. There were a number of issues, but one of them proved to be a defense that allowed 22.6 points per game. That mark ranked 34th in the country.

Fast forward to 2019 and the Badgers have 10 wins and a B1G West title as they prepare for the Rose Bowl. Wisconsin also hung with Ohio State all the way during a tough, hard-fought B1G Championship Game.

The difference? A defense led by Leonhard that allowed 16.1 points per game this season, a mark that ranked 10th in the nation and was a six-point bump from 2018.

On Sunday, Leonhard was asked about what makes him so good at his job. Simply put, Leonhard knows his strengths and weaknesses, along with the fact that he is able to block out the outside chatter.

Zach Heilprin with the Wisconsin Sports Zone Network shared Leonhard’s comments:

The task ahead for Leonhard is slowing down a high-flying Oregon offense in the Rose Bowl. Hopefully, he can help the Badgers leave Pasadena with a win.

Paul Harvey

Paul is a lifelong fan and student of all things college football. He has been covering college football since 2017 and the B1G since 2018.