Wisconsin Targets USC Running Back Bryan Jackson to Revitalize Backfield

Wisconsin football is entering a pivotal offseason under head coach Luke Fickell, who is determined to reignite a program that has struggled to maintain its traditional physical identity. Staff changes are already underway as Fickell seeks to build a foundation capable of competing at the top of the Big Ten.

One area of focus is the Badgers’ backfield, which has lacked consistent production in recent seasons. Wisconsin’s running game, once a hallmark of its national reputation, has struggled to replicate the power, efficiency, and downhill style that defined previous championship teams.

Enter Bryan Jackson, a 6-foot, 235-pound running back from USC, who has emerged as a top target for the Badgers. Sources reporting to On3 and Rivals suggest Wisconsin is the favorite to land Jackson via the College Football Transfer Portal, offering a potential solution to its offensive challenges.

Jackson’s combination of size, skill, and experience could provide immediate impact in Madison. With Fickell looking for a spark to reestablish the Badgers’ physical brand of football, Jackson represents an opportunity to inject talent and leadership into a struggling backfield.

1. USC Backfield Competition

At USC, Jackson saw limited action over two seasons under Lincoln Riley, averaging 5.2 yards per carry in 2024 before dipping to 3.9 yards per carry in the following season. Despite flashes of promise, he began to lose opportunities as the Trojans’ depth chart evolved. King Miller emerged as USC’s leading rusher with 873 yards and seven touchdowns, while Waymond Jordan, a junior college transfer, added 576 yards and five touchdowns. Eli Sanders, a transfer from Iowa State and New Mexico, also surpassed Jackson in carries and production. Jackson’s reduced role highlighted the competitive nature of USC’s backfield and created a situation ripe for a transfer. For a player of his size and skill set, the College Football Transfer Portal offers a chance to showcase talent in a program that can fully utilize his abilities. USC’s crowded depth chart contrasts sharply with Wisconsin’s immediate need for a dynamic, lead back, making Jackson an attractive candidate for both the player and the program.

2. Wisconsin’s Backfield Needs

The Badgers have struggled to find consistent production from their running backs. Darrion Dupree led Wisconsin with only 363 yards and two touchdowns last season, while no other running back surpassed two scores. This lack of impact highlights a broader challenge for Fickell’s offense, which has struggled to maintain the downhill, physical identity once synonymous with Wisconsin football. Without a reliable back, the team’s offense has lacked balance and consistency. Bryan Jackson’s size and experience align with the type of player who could restore the program’s traditional rushing style. His potential to contribute immediately makes him a valuable target in the transfer market. Fickell’s pursuit of Jackson reflects a larger strategy to revitalize the team through key roster upgrades, providing hope for a backfield capable of sustaining Wisconsin’s historic physical brand.

3. Potential Impact in Madison

If Jackson joins the Badgers, he could compete for a starting role from day one. His combination of size, power, and experience positions him as a likely focal point for the offense. Fickell is seeking players who can bring both talent and attitude, and Jackson fits the mold of a lead back who can anchor a revitalized rushing attack. A strong season from Jackson could immediately elevate Wisconsin’s offense and set a tone for future recruiting. Beyond individual performance, landing a player from a high-profile program like USC can signal momentum in Fickell’s rebuilding efforts. It reinforces the idea that Wisconsin is a desirable destination for top-tier talent in the transfer portal era. For a program seeking to regain national relevance, Jackson could be the spark needed to restore the Badgers’ identity and competitiveness in the Big Ten.