Wisconsin will turn to true freshman quarterback Carter Smith when it visits No. 2 Indiana on Saturday, according to ESPN's Pete Thamel. The Badgers continue to navigate another season disrupted by injuries under coach Luke Fickell.
Smith replaces sophomore Danny O’Neil, who was carted off with a right leg injury during the first quarter of last week’s 13-10 win over then-No. 23 Washington. O’Neil, injured on a 21-yard keeper, had a towel over his head as he was taken to the locker room and did not return.
Smith made his college debut in relief, completing 3 of 12 passes for 8 yards while flashing his athleticism with 47 rushing yards and a touchdown. Senior Hunter Simmons is also available, but Smith will take the first snaps as Wisconsin searches for stability at a position that has eluded the program throughout Fickell’s three-year tenure.
The Badgers have endured a revolving door at quarterback. Billy Edwards Jr., the opening-day starter, sprained his knee in the first game and has played only one full series since. Wisconsin’s intended season-opening quarterback has been fully available for just 11 of 34 games since 2023.
Smith arrives with a decorated resume. The 2023 Gatorade Florida Player of the Year accounted for 29 passing touchdowns, 19 rushing scores and more than 2,900 total yards as a senior at Bishop Verot High School.
A scrappy, dual-threat playmaker, he is known for his off-platform throws, physical running style and competitiveness. Smith is also a standout baseball player, throwing a 91-mph fastball as a right-handed pitcher.
His first career start now comes on the road against one of the nation’s top teams.
More college football news:
- Deion Sanders buyout, contract details as Colorado Buffaloes coach
- Brian Kelly buyout, contract details as LSU Tigers coach
- Heisman Trophy winner Travis Hunter suffers major blow during rookie season
- Will Lane Kiffin leave Ole Miss? What to know about latest rumors
- Beloved college football mascot diagnosed with cancer