# Fickell names the lineman who must improve

> Wisconsin's offensive line is trending up under new coach Luke Fickell, but one starter needs to step up.
- Title: Fickell names the lineman who must improve | Shortify
- Summary: Wisconsin's offensive line is trending up under new coach Luke Fickell, but one starter needs to step up. PJ Wilkins, Wisconsin's left tackle, must improve…
- Keywords: wisconsin badgers, luke fickell, offensive line, pj wilkins, colton joseph, kevin heywood, colin cubberly, eric mateos, pass protection, college football 2026, sports, Fickell
- Source: Wisconsin Badgers On SI — https://si.com/college/wisconsin/football/luke-fickell-names-the-offensive-lineman-who-must-improve-for-wisconsin-football
- Published: 2026-09-15T23:30:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: wisconsin badgers, luke fickell, offensive line, pj wilkins, colton joseph, kevin heywood, colin cubberly, eric mateos, pass protection, college football 2026, sports
## Wisconsin's line shows real progress
The Badgers' offensive line is more physical and gets off the ball better than in recent years. Quarterback Colton Joseph has taken just two sacks through two games.
## Pass protection is solid so far
Against Western Illinois, Wisconsin allowed just three pressures. The line kept Joseph clean for most of the Notre Dame game too.
## But the run game needs work
Wisconsin managed only 67 rushing yards on 2.2 yards per carry against Notre Dame. The line isn't consistently moving defenders out of the way yet.
## Fickell likes the overall direction
The new offensive line coach Eric Mateos has the unit trending upward after years of struggles. Fickell sees the makings of something Wisconsin hasn't had in a while.

> I like where we are. I think there's the makings of some things that I've not sure we've had.
## Heywood, Cubberly, and Stylz impress
Kevin Heywood is solid despite missing camp. Colin Cubberly has grown from last year. Stylz is doing well coming from Division Two.
## Austin is the centerpiece
The center is the apex of the offense and carries responsibility for how the Badgers execute their system. His experience and leadership matter greatly.
## Wilkins must improve at left tackle
PJ Wilkins struggled in pass protection against Notre Dame, allowing edge pressure. He was better against Western Illinois but faced weaker competition.

> And then I'm not gonna lie, PJ (Wilkins), we have to push a little more.
## Wilkins' growth is crucial for offense
The left tackle's development throughout the season will determine whether the offense grows or stalls. His pass protection work is essential to the team's success.
## Key takeaway

PJ Wilkins, Wisconsin's left tackle, must improve in pass protection for the offense to reach its potential this season.