The Flip and the Fallout
Quarterback recruit Qwantavius Wiggins, a Class of 2026 standout, announced his decommitment from the University of Wisconsin and signed with Georgia State on Wednesday. The decision came after a brief but intense recruitment that saw the Badgers rise to the top of his list following an official visit that coincided with a dramatic upset over Washington.
Wiggins had originally pledged to the Badgers after receiving offers from a handful of power programs, including Florida State, Auburn, Cincinnati, Minnesota and Pittsburgh. His final choice was swayed by the short distance between his high school in Fairburn, Georgia, and the Georgia State campus, a factor that made the new destination feel like a natural next step.
While the loss of a highly touted back is notable, Wisconsin’s running back room remains crowded. The program addressed the vacancy by securing a top JUCO transfer, Julius Pope, who brings a blend of rushing and receiving skills. Pope’s experience is expected to fill the void left by Wiggins more quickly than a typical freshman adjustment.
Adding to the depth, senior Abu Sama, a transfer from Iowa State, will spearhead the backfield, while junior Darrion Dupree returns with improved blocking and pass‑catching abilities. Incoming transfers Bryan Jackson from USC and Nate Palmer from TCU further bolster the group, giving the Badgers a versatile mix of size, speed and elusiveness.
Coaching staff members are already looking ahead, acknowledging that the program may need to target additional high school running backs in the 2027 and 2028 cycles to maintain a pipeline of talent. For now, the focus is on integrating the new pieces and preserving the offensive rhythm that has defined Wisconsin’s ground game in recent seasons.