Good news, Maryland. Wisconsin now knows one-fourth of the pain you’re currently experiencing.
Following up on a report that surfaced Saturday night from Jake Zimmermann of WKOW, Wisconsin coach Bret Bielema confirmed Monday that starting quarterback Joel Stave is likely done for the year with a broken clavicle. Stave suffered in the injury during Saturday’s loss to Michigan State. Although Stave could return for a bowl game appearance, that’s unlikely to happen.
“It is probably looking at an eight-week recovery, which takes him out of the regular season,” Bielema said. “He should be 100% for spring ball.”
Danny O’Brien, who transferred from Maryland and began the season as the starter, replaced Stave last Saturday but has not locked down the job going forward, according to Bielema. Curt Phillips could also get the start in a crucial game two weeks from now against... wait for it... Indiana.
“Danny has had his shot a couple times this year,” Bielema added. “We’ll take this bye week and pretty much give him and Curt equal reps, see where we’re at going into Sunday.
“We may not make a public announcement but for sure we’d (let) our players know who is going to start the game Saturday and move forward.”
Stave, who has had clavicle problems his whole life, has just over 1,000 yards passing on the year and six touchdowns.