Wisconsin Badgers head football coach Gary Andersen joined us on National Signing Day to talk recruits, his defensive vision, and newest quarterback recruit Tanner McEvoy.

Given the big day in college football, Andersen said today has been “hectic”, but “it’s been a good day… We are 3 for 3. It’s a beautiful thing.” He added that it was “very stressful” condensing a year-long process into 4 weeks. “It’s a crazy process, but it’s fun.”

On the large number of defensive players being added to the roster, Andersen said it’s “need-based.” With a “tremendous group coming back” he envisions “an aggressive defense” and hopes to be able to play man coverage.

While it may be national signing day, Andersen did not leave walk-ons out of the conversation. A former walk-on himself, Andersen says they play “with a chip on their shoulder” and thinks it’s “amazing” that young men will pass up scholarships from other schools to play at Wisconsin.

As far as new recruit Tanner McEvoy, a junior college quarterback from Arizona Western, Andersen said he is expected to compete for the starting spot. What does Andersen look for in a quarterback that will set McEvoy apart? “Quarterbacks that have the ability to beat you with their minds, their arms, and their legs.” He feels that McEvoy possesses these qualities and likes his ability to run. “We like what he brings to the table.”