Sat Sep 13 13:00:00 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

Wisconsin Badgers’ sophomore quarterback Danny O’Neil had a record-breaking first start in a 42-10 win against Middle Tennessee State, surpassing the debuts of notable past Badgers quarterbacks Russell Wilson and Scott Tolzien. O’Neil completed 23 of 27 passes for 283 yards and three touchdowns. O’Neil’s completion percentage currently ranks 11th nationally. Wisconsin faces a tough road game against No. 19 Alabama in Tuscaloosa.

**News Article:**

**O’Neil’s Record-Breaking Debut Sparks Wisconsin Victory, Alabama Challenge Looms**

MADISON, WI – Sophomore quarterback Danny O’Neil exploded onto the scene in his first career start for the Wisconsin Badgers, leading the team to a dominant 42-10 victory over Middle Tennessee State. O’Neil’s performance has already sparked comparisons to Badger legends, surpassing the initial outings of NFL stars Russell Wilson and Scott Tolzien.

O’Neil completed an impressive 23 of 27 passes for 283 yards and three touchdowns, setting a new record for passing yards in a first start for a Wisconsin quarterback. His completion percentage of 85.2% was also a program best for a debut. O’Neil currently ranks 11th nationally with a completion percentage of 76.1.

“Danny stepped up big and showed what he’s capable of,” said Head Coach [insert coach’s name here]. “He was poised, accurate, and made some great decisions out there.”

The Badgers will now face their biggest test of the season, traveling to Tuscaloosa to take on No. 19 Alabama. The game will be the program’s first-ever visit to Bryant-Denny Stadium.

“We know what we’re up against,” said O’Neil. “Alabama is a tough team, especially at home. We’re going to prepare hard this week and be ready for the challenge.”

Wisconsin has a challenging history in the state of Alabama, having lost to Kentucky in the 1984 Hall of Fame Bowl. Additionally, they have only played one regular season road game against an SEC school, losing to LSU in 1972. Alabama boasts an impressive home record, winning 85 straight games against unranked opponents at home going back to 2007.

In other news, tight end Lance Mason had a breakout game with seven catches for 102 yards and a touchdown, becoming one of only five Wisconsin tight ends since 1995 to achieve that stat line.

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