As if a date with the eighth-ranked Michigan State Spartans wouldn't have been tough enough at full strength, injuries keep piling up for the 11th-ranked Wisconsin Badgers.
Thursday's injury report revealed that kicker Rafael Gaglianone, running back Bradrick Shaw and offensive lineman Jon Dietzen have all been ruled out for Saturday's conference-opener.
Additionally, running backs Corey Clement and Taiwan Deal were listed as questionable, the same designation they were given earlier in the week. Offensive lineman Micah Kapoi was also listed as questionable.
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Add the season-ending injury suffered earlier this year by linebacker Chris Orr and the injury-induced retirement of offensive lineman Dan Voltz, and that's a lot of injuries. The offensive side of the ball is especially affected at the moment, and that could spell trouble considering Wisconsin will feature a first-time starter at quarterback in Alex Hornibrook.
The running game is of particular concern, with the potential for three backs and two linemen to miss Saturday's game against a Michigan State defense that ranks first in the Big Ten in rushing defense, allowing just 72 yards per game on the ground.
The offense struggled a week ago, turning the ball over twice and scoring just 13 points through the first 52-plus minutes against Georgia State, needing a late scoring drive to come back in the fourth quarter.