The Ducks return home this weekend looking to keep momentum rolling against a Wisconsin team that’s been searching for answers on offense. The Badgers are certainly overmatched, but they still have some players worth keeping an eye on. Here are five names Ducks fans should know before kickoff.

Players to watch

Hunter Simmons QB

It’s been a tough stretch for Wisconsin at quarterback. With the top two guys going down early in the year, transfer Hunter Simmons has been thrown into the fire. The results haven’t been pretty – the Badgers haven’t found the end zone in a couple of weeks – but Simmons is still running the show while they wait on Danny O’Neil to get healthy. If he starts again, Oregon’s defense will be licking its chops.

Dilin Jones RB

If there’s a spark on this Wisconsin offense, it’s redshirt freshman running back Dilin Jones. The former four-star recruit has become the Badgers’ workhorse and has shown glimpses of the player fans hoped he’d be. He’s still waiting for that breakout performance, but he’s the guy they trust most in the backfield. Oregon’s front will need to keep tabs on him early.

Lance Mason TE

The transfer tight end is one of the most reliable weapons for this Wisconsin offense. Mason has very good hands, above-average speed, and is a good route runner. He ranks second on the team in receptions and receiving yards and has two touchdowns on the season. 

Darryl Peterson III OLB

Darryl Peterson III is the heartbeat of Wisconsin’s defense and one of its most experienced players. The veteran edge rusher brings energy and physicality every snap, and while the sack numbers aren’t eye-popping, he’s been a problem for opposing tackles all season. He’ll be one of the main guys tasked with slowing down Oregon’s fast-paced offense.

Christian Alliegro LB

Junior linebacker Christian Alliegro looks every bit the part of a Big Ten enforcer. He’s the team’s leading tackler and always seems to be around the ball. Alliegro does most of his damage in the middle, cleaning up run plays and setting the tone physically. The Ducks’ offensive line must account for him on every snap.