MADISON, Wis. — Phil Longo has been dismissed from his role as Wisconsin’s offensive coordinator, just one day following the Badgers’ 16-13 defeat to No. 1 Oregon, marking their third consecutive loss.
“I spoke with Phil Longo this morning and informed him that he will no longer serve as our offensive coordinator,” stated Wisconsin head coach Luke Fickell in a university-released statement on Sunday. “After a thorough evaluation of the program, I determined we are not meeting our goals, and I believe this change is in the best interest of our team. I am grateful for Phil’s dedication over the past two seasons in helping us build this program and wish him success in the future. There is still a lot ahead of us this season, and I am determined to ensure we finish strong.”
Longo joined Wisconsin after a successful period at North Carolina, where he coached current NFL quarterbacks Sam Howell and Drake Maye, the latter being the second overall pick in the upcoming 2024 NFL draft. His transition to Wisconsin prior to the 2023 season attracted considerable attention due to his expertise in Air Raid-style offenses, a stark contrast to Wisconsin’s traditional run-heavy approach.
Unfortunately, the Badgers’ offensive performance did not reach the heights that Longo previously achieved at other institutions. Last season, Wisconsin ended with a 7-6 record and posted an average of only 23.5 points per game—their lowest scoring average since 2004. Notably, they attempted passes on 50.8% of their plays last season, a first in decades for the program.
This season, the Badgers have opted for a run-heavy strategy, with a play distribution of 55.2% runs. However, their effectiveness has not improved significantly. Currently, with a record of 5-5, the team has managed to score just 23.9 points per game and has struggled greatly during their recent three-game losing streak, accumulating only 36 total points.
Wisconsin ranks 91st in yards per game and finds itself tied for 97th in scoring among all Football Bowl Subdivision teams. The offensive unit faltered again in their latest game against Oregon, where they had opportunities to achieve a notable victory. The Badgers were outscored 10-0 in the fourth quarter, failing to earn a single first down and turning the ball over in their last four offensive drives.
Another factor contributing to Longo’s struggles has been injuries to key players. Last season, quarterback Tanner Mordecai was sidelined for 3 ½ games due to a broken hand. This year, Tyler Van Dyke tore his ACL during the first drive of a loss to Alabama on September 14, ruling him out for the entire season.
Braedyn Locke, who has taken over as quarterback due to these injuries, has completed only 53.1% of his passes during his career and has thrown nine touchdowns and nine interceptions this season.
To keep their bowl eligibility streak alive, which is currently the third longest among Power Four teams, Wisconsin must secure a victory in one of their upcoming two games. They are also aiming for a 23rd consecutive winning season; only Boise State has a longer active streak of finishing above .500 in the Football Bowl Subdivision.
The Badgers are set to visit Nebraska on Saturday before concluding the regular season at home against Minnesota on November 29.