The Wisconsin Sportscast

Phil Longo Is Out, and Luke Fickell Is Feeling The Heat Nov 20, 2024

In this week's episode of The Wisconsin Sportscast, Lucas and Oates aren’t talking about the Badger Football Team’s formidable fight against Oregon, or the Badgers Men’s Basketball Team’s big upset win, or even the Packers questionable win against the Bears. Okay, maybe they talk about those big moments a little bit, but that’s not their focus. No, something more concerning is at hand, and his name is Luke Fickell.

Fickell fired Offensive Coordinator Phil Longo after the Badgers loss to the Ducks. Not the most surprising moves after the season they’ve been having. But the problem comes from how Fickell has decided to handle the situation. When asked at a media conference about why Fickell fired his prized hire, the one who was supposed to turn the team around, he seemed surprised and annoyed that someone would dare ask for an explanation. This isn’t Ohio State, Oates says, you need to explain yourself at least a little bit when you make a big mid-season move like this.

Longo is a good coach, though maybe not a good coach for the Badgers. But Fickell is the one who hired the guy, and gave him big bucks to run his air raid offense. So why hire him, or why fire him! We can’t answer these questions, because all Fickell would do when asked about this, or maybe about who will be calling the plays the rest of the season. Instead, Fickell called play calling a bit overrated. But even if playcalling is overrated, we’ve been asking all season what the offense's identity is. Without an offensive coordinator they won’t have any identity and a lot of the players they’ve brought on have got to be questioning what direction they’re going to take going forward.

Firing Longo is one thing, but what rubs both Lucas and Oates the wrong way is the arrogance that Fickell had when someone dared question that move. Lucas postures that he has to be feeling the heat. If things don’t turn around soon, the Badgers won’t get a bowl game this year for the first time in decades. If that happens after the hype that he raised last year, he has to be sweating. We would be.

The Wisconsin Sportscast with Lucas & Oates is a Cap Times podcast produced by Nate Wegehaupt. Find it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

A Big Badgers Weekend and the Bears Don’t Get Quarterbacks Nov 13, 2024

In this week's episode of The Wisconsin Sportscast, there’s a big, exciting weekend ahead for fans of Badgers sports. Starting on Friday night, the men’s basketball team will be taking on Arizona at the Kohl’s Center in what will likely be a great game for fans. Not only will it be Bo Ryan night, with the raising of a banner in his name with a few of his final four players in attendance (well, those not in Europe). Arizona is the first big non conference team the Badgers are facing this season, and will prove to be an exciting game for the team to test their real talent. The Badgers are looking good so far this season, but Oates wants to see a little aggression Friday night to see them really compete with Arizona.

Then on Saturday night, the Badger football team takes on the number 1 Oregon Ducks. After a bye week and a terrible loss to Iowa the week before, the Badgers are going to need to really show their stuff if they want to even come close to competing with the Ducks. They are number 1 for a reason, with one of the best offensive lines in the nation, and a quarterback who can move, and thus dominate, to boot. They’ll have to stay physical, like Lucas and Oates have been calling on them to all season. But they’ll be playing without advisor Jack Del Rio, who resigned Monday after an OWI last weekend. The correct call, Lucas and Oates agree.

Then on Sunday, the Packers take on the Bears in Chicago after having a bye week. But that isn’t the story we’re focusing on, we’re focusing on how much longer Matt Eberflus has a job as the Bears head coach. They fired Offensive Coordinator Shane Waldron on Tuesday, after continuing the Bears tradition of not knowing what to do about their quarterback. Caleb Williams made waves when he was drafted, but since then what has he done? It’s been nearly 75 years since the Bears have had a truly great quarterback, and with Sunday’s disappointing loss to the Patriots, Eberflus has to be counting his days. As for the Packers, hopefully the bye week was productive for the team, and especially Love. Hopefully Love was not only able to heal up physically, but able to take a look at all of the interceptions he’s thrown this season, and figure out how to avoid them going forward with the season.

The Wisconsin Sportscast with Lucas & Oates is a Cap Times podcast produced by Nate Wegehaupt. Find it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

The Packers Need Discipline, the Badgers Need an Identity, and the Bucks Need Some Youth Nov 06, 2024

In this week's episode of The Wisconsin Sportscast, Jordan Love is beginning to show a pattern for the season so far: big game making mistakes. This time while taking on the Lions in Green Bay, a pick 6 at the end of the first half, putting a dour mood over the rest of the game. Yes, Detroit played very well, and yes the weather was terrible, but that’s not an excuse. The Packers outdrove the Lions significantly, and on paper should have at least been competitive. Love needs to start learning from his mistakes, Oates says, and the fact that he keeps making these same mistakes over and over again is concerning.

The blame can’t just lay on Love though, the game was filled with mistakes all over, with dropped passes and missed field goals. That’s not to mention the lack of discipline the team is showing, with 30 pre-snap penalties so far this season. Discipline needs to be the focus and emphasis going forward, Oates says, because these penalties cannot keep happening.

The Lions, meanwhile, continued to show that they’re a, if not the, top team in the whole NFL. They have one of the best offensive lines around, and this was a weak game for Goff! That is to say, this shouldn’t be seen as a bad loss by the Packers, just a frustrating one.

Speaking of frustration and disappointment, the Badgers fell hard to Iowa last weekend. It’s one thing to lose to Penn State, Oates thinks, but it’s another to lose to Iowa. In theory, they should be on par with the Badgers, not a team to blow them out. But the Badgers have forfeited any identity they have. It looked for a while like they might have some physicality, but they showed this weekend that they don’t. They can’t stop a run, and Brayden Locke keeps making mistakes, a pattern in Wisconsin quarterbacks these days. Lucas has to ask, what are the Badgers good at these days?

Finally, the Bucks continue to lose, though by tighter margins against the undefeated Cavs. The team is just too old, Lucas thinks. When Giannes and Damian Lillard are throwing up 75 points in one game and still lose, there’s a big issue. While there has been media chatter about Giannes leaving, just looking at their record, it’s just too early to make any big statements about the team this year, though the playoffs already look like a far reach this season.

The Wisconsin Sportscast with Lucas & Oates is a Cap Times podcast produced by Nate Wegehaupt. Find it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

Packers-Lions Preview, and Badgers Need to Up Their Passing Attack Oct 30, 2024

In this week's episode of The Wisconsin Sportscast, laryngitis can’t keep Lucas down as he and Oates take a look at the highly anticipated matchup between the Packers and the Lions this Sunday. It’s a shame that both teams are facing some big injuries, but even with the Lions’ dominant victory this weekend, Oates says the Packers still have a chance. The Packers are a good team, even if they still need to pull everything together. But the Lions are a major threat, with one of the best offensive lines in the NFL. Add in Jarod Goff, who has had a real career turn around since joining the Lions, and their record starts to make sense. Still, Oates thinks the Packers have a chance this weekend even if Malik Willis is on the field.

Why could Willis be on the field? Jordan Love saw a groin injury on Sunday, but thankfully it doesn’t seem to be too serious and he’s still a hard maybe for Sunday. But while nobody is saying Love is injury-prone, his MLC sprain may be coming back to haunt him throughout the season. If he does sit out this weekend, it may be for the best as the Packers have a bye week after taking on the Lions.

Meanwhile in Camp Randall, the Badgers fell to Penn State on Saturday, and are set to take on the Iowa Hawkeyes this weekend. The Badgers need to up their passing attack, says Oates. Braedyn Locke is good when he’s protected, but he needs work when he is under pressure. Locke needs to start learning from his mistakes and upping his passing game if the Badgers want to be competitive against these bigger teams.

Finishing things off, the Badgers Men’s Basketball team makes their season opener on Wednesday night against River Falls. They’ll take on some smaller teams before taking on Arizona on November 15. That night, they’ll be raising the Bo Ryan banner, an honor he 100% deserves. But looking at the team this year, while nobody’s seen them play a game quite yet, Oates has seen a few practices and says not to count them out this season. The Big 10 doesn’t have a ton of great players this season, and the Badgers have a few guys who could turn out to be real breakout players.

The Wisconsin Sportscast with Lucas & Oates is a Cap Times podcast produced by Nate Wegehaupt. Find it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

NIL Drives Off Tony Bennett, and Badgers Need to Turn the Corner Oct 23, 2024

In this week's episode of The Wisconsin Sportscast, Tony Bennett has announced that he is retiring as head coach of the University of Virginia basketball team. His reasons? The same complaints that Lucas and Oates have been making: NIL is changing the game, and not in a good way. Or as he put it in a press conference last week, he’s become a square peg for a circle hole. Most college coaches, in both football and basketball, are getting frustrated by the entire system, and Bennett seems to be no exception. The frustration is especially clear when you look at the millions of guaranteed money he is walking away from.

NIL is hurting all of college sports, says Lucas and Oates. The system is squeezing out the developmental programs, like in Virginia and in Wisconsin, because it’s hard to build up players over four years if another school can throw millions at them at any time. And with schools putting their focus on NIL, that leaves the sports that aren’t football and basketball fending for themselves. Don’t believe Lucas and Oates? Where are the Badgers Track and Field Team practicing this winter? Those sports are also important, if maybe not as popular, but they are going to be left to the wayside to prop up an industry that’s getting as much money as both the NFL and the NBA.

The show isn’t just doom and gloom. The Badgers football team has a big game this weekend as they take on the big Penn State. The Badgers are on a three game winning streak at the moment. Are those wins against objectively terrible teams? Yes. But, they’ve dominated each of those three teams, as they should do if they want to be taken seriously. But this weekend will be the real test for the Badgers, and they will need to truly turn a corner if they want to continue to be taken seriously. Either way, Oates thinks it’ll be a great game as the Nittany Lions play under the Camp Randall lights.

The Packers had another good showing this weekend as well, taking down the Texans thanks to a fieldgoal from the team’s newest kicker: Brandon McManus. But while everyone’s eyes were on one kicker this weekend, another took home the game ball, as punter Daniel Whelan consistently flipped the field. It was a game ball well deserved. The final question as they go against the disappointing Jaguars this weekend is: will Jaire Alexander ever shut up??

The Wisconsin Sportscast with Lucas & Oates is a Cap Times podcast produced by Nate Wegehaupt. Find it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

Bo Ryan Get’s Another Hall of Fame, and Badgers Finally Look Physical Oct 16, 2024

In this week's episode of The Wisconsin Sportscast, Bo Ryan is added to another hall of fame in the Naismith Hall of Fame, to a very warm audience. He even gave a great speech, says Lucas! At least for Bo Ryan it was a great speech. He was gracious, he was humble, he was even emotional at times. But that makes Lucas ask the question: who was Bo Ryan the coach?

Oates says that Bo Ryan, to him, means consistency. When he had the star players, his teams were great. But even when he didn’t have the stars? He still had a really good team on his hands. Bo’s players play to his vision of basketball, and that’s what makes him such a great coach. Even when he was coaching in Platteville, he was great at developing players and could win a conference title in just a few years. Even just sticking with the Badgers, taking a team to the Final Four twice in a row is unbelievable, says Oates, and his induction into the Naismith Hall of Fame is well deserved.

Meanwhile in the NFL, the Packers beat the Cardinals in Green Bay on Sunday, but that doesn’t mean that Lucas was super impressed. Still, the Packers and Jordan Love are starting to find their rhythm. Their defense is getting better and better, especially when it comes to takeaways. Oates thinks that Sunday was Love’s best game this season, and he’s hitting ten targets in a game. It’s great that Doubs is getting back in the mix, and Watson is proving to be a bit of a difference maker, but the receiving threats are everywhere and the Packers are starting to look like they did at the end of last season. Next up, the Packers take on Houston in what should be a fun game. They’re two young teams with young quarterbacks, and it should be a good game down in Texas.

Finishing things off for the day, the Badgers stomped once again, easily taking down Rutgers. Did they take down another crappy team? Sure, but the team is continuing to improve. Most importantly, they looked physical against Rutgers, which is what we’ve been wanting to see out of them all season. Next weekend they take on Northwestern on the beautiful shores of Lake Michigan. The problem? The field is a converted la crosse and soccer field, thanks to Northwestern tearing down their old Ryan Field. While that’s ultimately a good thing to see that dinosaur go away, it will present an interesting challenge for the Badgers.

The Wisconsin Sportscast with Lucas & Oates is a Cap Times podcast produced by Nate Wegehaupt. Find it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

Another Year of Brewer Gut Punches, and Badgers Finally Dominate Oct 09, 2024

In this week's episode of The Wisconsin Sportscast, the Brewers deliver their yearly postseason gut punch with a last minute loss to the Mets. There was a lot of chatter about Devin Williams and Pat Murphy’s choice to use Williams as a closer, but what was he supposed to do? Williams might not have had it in him in game 3 against the Mets, but if you’ll forgive the cliche, that’s baseball. He’s still a fantastic closer, and putting him in was really the only call. Is it devastating that he couldn’t pull through? Yes, but sometimes, that’s what happens. Williams doesn’t seem long for the Brewers, not because of the loss but because he’s only a year away from free agency and looks likely to go to the Dodgers sometime soon. For now, we can only look ahead to next season, where Lucas has two questions: will Yelich be ready to go next spring and what is Chourio’s ceiling (high, says Oates).

Turning to the NFL, the big news on Tuesday is the firing of Robert Saleh as head coach of the Jets. Did Rodgers have anything to do with it? We in Wisconsin certainly know that he isn’t exactly easy to work with, and he does have pull. But who knows, Rodgers likely didn’t have too much to do with it, though he probably didn’t help Saleh at all.

Turning to the Packers, they defeated the Rams on Sunday without the help of Romeo Doubs. He was sitting at home after facing suspension by the team last week for an unmentioned reason, though the rumors are he walked off practice after causing a fracas over a lack of targets. If that is the reason, then Oates says he acted selfishly, putting himself over the team. That said, he seems to have come around and is expected to play the Cardinals this weekend.

Back to the Rams though, there was some good and some bad. The good came from Tucker Kraft, who is checking all the boxes for a great tight end. The bad came from Love’s horrible pick 6 for a touchdown in the endzone. It was a meathead play that gave the Rams a free 7 points, but it might not be all bad. It might have been what Love needed to wake up and get back into the game and learn from his mistake.

Finally, the Badgers finally looked like a great team crushing Purdue on Saturday. It’s about time! The Badgers have played a few teams they should have crushed, and this is the first time they’ve actually done that. They are starting to find some real playmakers, and several players showed the explosive power the Badgers offense needs. Now, this was still Purdue, so don’t get too excited, but still, it shows improvement. Maybe Coldplay can cheer on the team and give them the encouragement they need to keep this power going.

The Wisconsin Sportscast with Lucas & Oates is a Cap Times podcast produced by Nate Wegehaupt. Find it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

No Surprises From Love, and the Badgers Need to Turn Around Oct 02, 2024

In this week's episode of The Wisconsin Sportscast, Love had his big comeback on Sunday in a tight loss to the Vikings, and he played about as Lucas and Oates expected. Well, other than the picks at least. He did limp a little bit here and there, but overall he looked like a guy who’s played one game this season and has been out for weeks. Should he have waited another week to come back, and have his big return be against the Rams instead of taking on the red hot Vikings? Should they have had Love play one half of the game and Willis play the other? No, says Oates, at least on the second question. It would only feed into the extremists who say Willis should be our new starter.

The real blow to the Packers on Sunday came from kicker Brayden Narveson. When Narveson misses two field goals and the Pack ends up losing by two, it’s hard not to think that they might have won if he had made even one of those two kicks. The Packers are working two kickers this week, but we won’t know for sure what our kicking is going to look like until Sunday when they take on the Rams in what should be an ego boost. But Oates says that the loss to the Vikings was not just on Narveson or on Love, it was a systematic failure on the part of the entire team. At least Aaron Jones had a good game.

Turning to the Badgers, the team played one of the best first halves they’ve played this season. Unfortunately, they then played one dreadful second half, leading to a loss against USC. They continue to play as a team with no real identity, causing USA Today to call them one of the biggest losers of the season so far. While Lucas isn’t ready to throw in the towel on the entire season yet, it’s hard to argue that they aren’t flailing. This weekend they take on Purdue, who they have a 17 game winning streak against, so hopefully they can really show who they’re going to be this weekend.

Finally, Lucas and Oates end the show this week with two obituaries: Joe Wolf, one of the best athletes to come out of a Wisconsin high school, and Pete Rose, a great if problematic, for lack of a better term, ball player.

The Wisconsin Sportscast with Lucas & Oates is a Cap Times podcast produced by Nate Wegehaupt. Find it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

Packers vs Viking Preview, and Brewers Make the Playoffs Sep 25, 2024

In this week's episode of The Wisconsin Sportscast, Lucas and Oates are feeling the buzz for this Sunday’s Packers game against the Viking. Did anyone expect this game to be so anticipated before the season? Nobody was expecting the Vikings to be great, and now they are a truly formidable team, thanks to both a great coaching staff and good players on the field. While people thought the Packers would beat the Titans and Colts at the beginning of the season, did anyone expect them to beat them again with Willis? The Packers have been playing good ball, and it’s not just all on Willis. The defense has stepped up and has played aggressive all year. That aggressiveness on the defensive line is paying off, but will it be enough to take out the Vikings?

Not only will it be a great game on Sunday, but Aaron Jones will be returning to Lambeau, though this time in a purple uniform. It’s hard to really dislike Jones though, Lucas and Oates agree. He’s a great player, a great guy, and even great with the media. He’ll be a hall of famer in Green Bay, Oates thinks.

Meanwhile, the Badgers return to the field this Saturday facing Southern California. SoCal took a beating from Michigan last weekend, which showed the Badgers exactly what they need to do: pound the line of scrimmage. If the defense can hammer that offensive line, the Badgers have a chance.

Over in Milwaukee, the Brewers have secured their spot in the playoffs, which means the next step on the ladder is one of three teams: Diamonbacks, Mets, or Padres. They are three of the hottest teams in all of baseball, and will pose a hurdle to their chances. While they don’t have any real star players like Shohei Ohtani, they still have a very strong team for the playoffs. But that then creates the questions: is Pat Murphy the National League MVP Manager this year? There’s a good argument to be made, Oates thinks.

The Wisconsin Sportscast with Lucas & Oates is a Cap Times podcast produced by Nate Wegehaupt. Find it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

Another Wisconsin Quarterback is Hurt, but Willis Shows Some Promise Sep 18, 2024

In this week's episode of The Wisconsin Sportscast, the boys start the episode the same way they started last week with an injured quarterback. Tyler Van Dyke went down in the game against Alabama. Van Dyke suffered a torn ACL in what Oates thought was a nasty no-contact injury. He’ll be out the rest of the season, which is a blow to everyone. It’s a blow to Van Dyke, who’s going to miss what could have been a great comeback season. It’s a blow to the Badger’s, who now have to rely on Braedyn Locke as their quarterback the rest of the season. And it’s a blow to Badger fans who were hoping for an identity to emerge around Van Dyke.

Would Van Dyke come back to the Badgers next year? He should be ready to hit the field by the fall camp next year, but would the Badgers be able to afford him? He might be able to make it into the NFL, but with the state of the NIL today, he might be taking a pay cut.

Switching to pro-football, the Packers beat out the Colts on Sunday, thanks to a great coaching job from LeFleur. Willis looked promising, and he was put in a position to succeed. The Packers’ running game was strong, and they stuck to it, even when things hit a wall in the third quarter. The team ran the ball creatively and stuck to a great game plan, which paid off in the end. Plus, Badger fans were given something good to watch as Jonathan Taylor played a good game back in Wisconsin.

The Wisconsin Sportscast with Lucas & Oates is a Cap Times podcast produced by Nate Wegehaupt. Find it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

Love’s Hurt, Willis is Up, and the Badgers Take ‘Bama Sep 11, 2024

In this week's episode of The Wisconsin Sportscast, it’s hard to lead with anything other than Jordan Love’s injury. In the final seconds of the Packers opening game in Brazil on Friday, Love went down that Oates and everyone else thought looked like a horrible leg injury. But LeFleur says he has an MCL sprain, meaning he’s only expected to be out for 3-6 games. LeFleur is even leaving the door open for Love to return this Sunday against the Colts, though that’s almost certainly him being coy to psych out Indianapolis. Still, the team doctors are known to be a touch conservative and er on the side of caution, meaning Love likely won’t be back until he’s ready.

In the meantime, it’s almost certain that Malik Willis will be in the position of starting quarterback this Sunday. What does that mean? Who knows, at least until the game is over. While some have said of Willis as “the arm of Jay Cutler and the playing style of Jaylen Hurts,” he hasn’t been in too many big games. With every game in the NFL being a big game, Willis is going to need to step up on Sunday. While it’s not a must win game quite yet, the Packers can’t afford to lose every game that Love needs to sit out.

Outside of Love’s injury (and the slippery field), Oates says he saw a good number of issues on the field. As LeFleur put it, there were a lot of sloppy plays. You know what could have avoided those sloppy plays? Maybe a preseason game or two.

In college football, the Badgers are heading up against ‘Bama this weekend, their toughest team yet. SEC teams are fast and ‘Bama are no exception. Still, Oates thinks the Badgers have a chance - the game is in Camp Randall and ‘Bama has a new coach. But they have to play physically, both on offense and defense, and make zero mistakes. Because one mistake, especially on defense, and Alabama will take advantage of it and score. Both teams the Badgers have played so far this year should have been well below them. And they cannot afford to play like that again on Saturday.

The Wisconsin Sportscast with Lucas & Oates is a Cap Times podcast produced by Nate Wegehaupt. Find it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

Can the Brewers Keep Adames, and Packers in Brazil Preview Sep 04, 2024

In this week's episode of The Wisconsin Sportscast, Lucas brings up an uncomfortable question: can the Brewers keep Willy Adames?

Probably not, says Oates. He’s playing great baseball, and every home run he hits helps the Brewers grow their divisional lead. But those home runs are also driving up his price point. While he’s a great fit for the Brewers, both in terms of athletic ability and in personality and his ability to bring the team together, the Brewers would really struggle to afford his floor, and his ceiling is growing every day.

Getting off that topic, the Badgers won their game against Western Michigan on Saturday, and gave us a lot to look at. There was some good: their running game was strong and hard, and Lucas likes the look of the wide receivers. There was also some stuff that looked mediocre. Or maybe that’s just “methodical.” But in the 14th game of the Luke Fickle era, the fireworks offense that was promised still hasn’t materialized. Van Dyke has better running legs than expected, but his yardage isn’t there. Add in some possible communication issues into the mix, and it leads to some worry. But the season is young, and we’ll see what happens with South Dakota next week.

After the break, it’s time to break down what to expect Friday night as the Green Bay Packers head to Brazil to take on the Eagles. Both Jordan Love and Jalen Hurts are a bit of a mystery this season, and the Eagles have been having some back of house issues, but they’re still a tough team to take on anywhere. Brayden Narveson has been named as the Packers’ kicker, and neither Lucas or Oates know much about him. He had a good college and preseason career, but will that amount to success in the NFL? Lucas and Oates give their predictions for what they think is going to happen this Friday in the Packers season opener.

The Wisconsin Sportscast with Lucas & Oates is a Cap Times podcast produced by Nate Wegehaupt. Find it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

AJ Dillon Isn’t Cut, But He Is Out Aug 28, 2024

In this week's episode of The Wisconsin Sportscast, it’s cut down day for the Packers, and while one big name player isn’t cut, he is out for the season. The team announced that AJ Dillon is out for the season due to a neck injury. That’s a blow to the Packers, especially since this might mean Dillon is done not just for the season, but for the Packers.

The green and gold still have Josh Jacobs to rely on, along with Marshawn Lloyd and Emmanual Wilson, so they do still have options.We may not have seen much of Jacobs, Oates says, but he’s still a high quality player. Wilson is a grinder, says Lucas, and while still a step down from Jacobs he’s still a good asset. As for Lloyd, we just haven’t seen enough, and who knows, he could come through and surprise us.

But Tuesday was still cut day for a lot of Packers, including both Sean Clifford and Michael Pratt, who were both vying for a spot as Love’s backup quarterback. That leaves Malik Willis as the backup QB by default, unless they pick up someone cut from elsewhere Tuesday. But that situation, Oates says, is dire.

Those weren’t the only cuts Tuesday. Kicker Anders Carlson is out, in a blow to the special teams. So is linebacker Kristian Welch. But of course, Tuesday was cut down day, and someone had to go.

Turning to college football, the Badgers are set to face off against Western Michigan in their first game Friday night. Tyler van Dyke will be starting as quarterback, and while the question of who was going to fill that role was up in the air for a while, that doesn’t mean he didn’t earn it.

But sticking with injuries, defensive lineman James Thompson Jr. could be missing the entire season due to an upper body injury. As one of the most senior players on the team, that hurts. But Oates says that the defense will still take a step up this season.

The Wisconsin Sportscast with Lucas & Oates is a Cap Times podcast produced by Nate Wegehaupt. Find it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

A Good Time for Packers Fans to be Humbled Aug 21, 2024

In this week's episode of The Wisconsin Sportscast, Lucas and Oates look back at what they said last week about what LeFleur said about wanting to vomit, and wonder if Packers fans are feeling about the same this week. After last weekend’s exhibition nightmare, Oates thinks it’s about time that Packers fans got a bit humbled. For months, people have been heaping a little bit too much praise on the Packers, considering how young the team is. But after that mess? Maybe both the fans and the organization can get a nice scoop of perspective.

Starting with the first wakeup call - is Sean Clifford really a proper backup quarterback to serve the Packers if something happens to Jordan Love? While some people thought that Clifford should be starting over Love, this weekend showed that Clifford has some major issues. While we only saw one performance from the backup quarterback, we still have to ask: is Sean Clifford really a viable backup? That wasn’t the only issue though, looking at that backup offensive line, Lucas and Oates both ask if there is any depth. Even the best of that backup line is going to create an issue if they have play them in a real game.

LeFleur still hasn’t said if any starters will be playing the Ravens this weekend, but Oates thinks they better. People are forgetting that this might be the youngest team in the NFL this season, and as Oates has been saying for weeks now, they all need reps in a real game.

Moving onto the Brewers, the Brew Crew has gained the largest divisional lead in all of baseball right now. And sure, their league isn’t great, but that shouldn’t discount the teams chances in the playoffs. Even since Yellich announced that he was out for the season, the team has held their own both at the plate and on the mound.

The Wisconsin Sportscast with Lucas & Oates is a Cap Times podcast produced by Nate Wegehaupt. Find it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

The Packers First Preseason Game and Steph Curry Has Another Moment with Team USA Aug 14, 2024

In this week's episode of The Wisconsin Sportscast, the Packers had their first preseason game this past weekend, and Lucas and Oates have a lot of thoughts. But no questions about the Packers’ Number One WR, or LaFleur might vomit. He says he’s sick of that question, and there’s little question why. One of the few issues Aaron Rodgers had when he was still with the Packers was that he focused too much on Davante Adams and not enough on anyone else.

Instead, the Packers have several “top” guys, which helps in a lot of ways, Oates says. First, you aren’t paying any one of them quite as much as you would a Number One guy. But it also opens up the offense when the defense doesn’t know where you’re going to pass to.

Moving away from the receivers though, Oates was pretty impressed with their new defensive line. They're talented and explosive, which is not something they’ve seen quite as much in recent years. The Packers old defense wasn’t playing to their players strengths, but if they stay as they looked on Saturday, that might not be the case this season. It might not be fancy and exotic, but it will be aggressive.

Moving away from football, Team USA won the gold in basketball, thanks in no small part to Steph Curry. It was another great moment for him, in a career of great moments. Steph’s changed basketball, Lucas says, and probably won’t be the same for a long time. Also on Team USA, and not to be discounted, is Jrue Holiday. If you look at the paper, Jrue probably wouldn’t be considered a hall of famer. But if you look at the court, and the results? There’s no question, and this gold medal just cements that fact.

The Wisconsin Sportscast with Lucas & Oates is a Cap Times podcast produced by Nate Wegehaupt. Find it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

The New NFL Kickoff Rules Are Confusing, and Old Man Flashbacks Aug 07, 2024

In this week's episode of The Wisconsin Sportscast, Lucas and Oates spend a little bit of time having old man flashbacks before tackling a big question everyone watching the beginning of the NFL season: what’s going on with these new kickoff rules?

They’ll be tested out for a one-year basis, but they are very confusing. Onside kicks are only allowed in the fourth quarter, and only if the team is trailing, and they have to be declared first? Touchbacks can be at the 20, 30, or 40 yard line? Sure, keeping the kickoff is a good thing, it should stick around! But this is confusing.

There’s only one way to really know how they will turn out - watching a game. Still, the Packers were one of only a few teams to vote against the rule change. The first team to really figure out how to make the new rules work to their advantage might still be able to make some real big plays.

Speaking of Packers games, they play their first preseason game this Saturday, and Love will be on the field. Probably not for the full game, but Oates says it’s a good thing. The Packers are a young team this year, and Love is still a young quarterback. Getting some snaps in before the regular season could help them in the long run.

The Packers first regular season game this year? Against Philly, and playing in Brazil. Lucas doesn’t like it, and neither does Oates. Lucas doesn’t like it because it’s not fair to the fans. It’s the opening game of the season, and very few hometown fans will probably be able to attend. Oates doesn’t like it because it’s not fair to the players. Any time any team plays overseas, it’s going to take more than a week for them to recover.

Finally, the Memorial Shell at UW Madison is coming down, and Oates has a lot of memories playing pickup basketball there, going back decades. He’s played against everyone from football coaches to a cavalcade of players, to even a former Wisconsin governor…

The Wisconsin Sportscast with Lucas & Oates is a Cap Times podcast produced by Nate Wegehaupt. Find it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

Jordan Love Gets the Bag Jul 31, 2024

In this week's episode of The Wisconsin Sportscast, Lucas and Oates pick up on last week’s conversation on Jordan Love. After some speculation on his contract, Love is walking away with $55 million a season. Is that a big bag? Yes, but it’s still friendly to the team, thanks to slightly lower guaranteed money.

While the deal was inevitable, Oates says, the Packers at least have some protection in case Love doesn’t turn out to be as good as he was the last 10 games of last season. The Packers weren’t getting out of this cheap, not without Love, and Oates says that this is a decent deal, and everyone can come out happy.

That means that Love joins the $50 million + club, which means that now we have to ask: which $50 million + quarterback is going to play in the super bowl this next year?

Meanwhile, the MLB trade deadline has come and gone. There was some concern that Yellich could see his replacement come through after his latest injury. But the Brewers have bigger fish to fry, namely their starting pitchers. The Brewers need someone with length, Oates says, considering how much of their bench has been on the DL this year.

Finally, the Badgers have started practice in Platteville. It’s no use to try and decide if they’ll be a great team or not this year, Lucas says. At least not in this heat.

The Wisconsin Sportscast with Lucas & Oates is a Cap Times podcast produced by Nate Wegehaupt. Find it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

Beer Will Be Sold at Camp Randall Jul 24, 2024

In this week's episode of The Wisconsin Sportscast, beer is going to be sold this season at Camp Randall. About time says Lucas and Oates! Not that they ever drank on the job, the press rooms were mostly dry. But in all seriousness, it’s more surprising that it took this long for Camp Randall to sell beer. After UW Madison tested the waters at the Kohl Center last year with their beer experiment, where the results were money money and more money, it’s no surprise that Camp Randall is next in line.

The Badgers are now the 16th football team in the Big 10 to sell beer at football games, leaving just two teams NOT selling beer at football games. “That’s how it goes in college sports,” Oates says. “Once someone finds a revenue stream, they all have to have that revenue stream.” Can Camp Randall handle the new beer sales though? Try walking up and down those stairs four or five times each game, not to mention the bathrooms. Will people buy beer at Badger football games? Sure, but not like they do at the Kohl Center. Not at Kohl Center prices, at the very least.

Sticking with the Big 10, they held their first big football media day on Tuesday, and Luke Fickell took some media training and spoke about not much of anything for about 13 minutes. If you talk about nothing for that long, nobody will ask you questions. Why doesn’t Fickell want to answer questions, though? Nobody is going to really go after him, there hasn’t been any games yet!

Moving to the NFL, Jordan Love wasn’t at practice again on Tuesday. Not until he signs a contract, he says. While he needs to get to practice sooner rather than later, it’s not too much of an issue unless he’s still not at practice next week. Oates remembers just how Rodger or even Farve would be treated for missing a practice. Love is being a businessman, let him be a businessman.

The Wisconsin Sportscast with Lucas & Oates is a Cap Times podcast produced by Nate Wegehaupt. Find it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

The Home Run Derby is Boring Jul 17, 2024

In this week's episode of The Wisconsin Sportscast, Lucas does something he hasn’t done in a while: watch soccer. He’s been enjoying the games so far, but he does still have two complaints.

How does anyone know how much time is left in the game, and why do these players keep flopping?

When he wasn’t watching soccer, he was watching the Home Run Derby, but he ran into the issue, namely the worst rendition of the national anthem he’s ever heard. Ingrid Andress might have some MLB connections, but she still had a worse national anthem than Roseanne Barr and Fergie.

But even sticking with the Home Run Derby itself, Lucas and Oates agree: it’s too boring and gimmicky. There’s no big stars, with Aaron Judge and Shohei Ohtani nowhere to be found, and nobody can understand the rules. Sure, the Home Run Derby was fun back in the 90s, but today? No thanks. At least the All Star Game is still fun, says Oates.

If the Home Run Derby doesn’t get Oates excited, Gary Trent Jr certainly will. After being signed by the Bucks, there isn’t much for Oates to complain about. He’s a great player, a great athlete, and exactly what the Bucks need right now.

The Wisconsin Sportscast with Lucas & Oates is a Cap Times podcast produced by Nate Wegehaupt. Find it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

Giannis Will Carry the Greek Flag in Spain Jul 10, 2024

In this week's episode of The Wisconsin Sportscast, Lucas and Oates congratulate Giannis on not just playing for the Greek National Team in the Olympics, but carrying their flag. While he may be known as the Greek Freak in Milwaukee, he faced adversity in his home country growing up as a Nigerian immigrant. But his devotion to Greece is something to respect.

Sticking with Giannis, are the Bucks falling into the background? Lucas and Oates agree that yes, they are. To start, Giannis doesn’t have the right players surrounding him,and he isn’t getting that. Oates says that, if you look at the teams that did well in the playoffs, they are all young and athletic. That is not the Bucks, at least not this season. But as long as Giannis is on the team, Oates says that they’ll still be a fun team to watch, and still have a chance at a ring. Lucas, though, is not quite as sold on that notion.

Sticking with basketball, how does this year’s USA National Team compare to the Dream Team? They don’t, Lucas and Oates say. Because with the Dream Team, they were accused of making a mockery of the competition. But then the rest of the world learned from them, and just look at how many foreign players are in the NBA today compared to the 90s?

Finally, Braun vs Yelich? Oates says that Yelich in 2018/2019 was one of the best in the world. But compared to the career of Ryan Braun, the answer is clear. Even if his reputation in Milwaukee is a little sullied at this point.

The Wisconsin Sportscast with Lucas & Oates is a Cap Times podcast produced by Nate Wegehaupt. Find it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

Bill Brophy and the Rise of the Brewers Jul 03, 2024

Oates is away, which means it’s the perfect time for Lucas to bring in his old friend Bill Brophy, former sports editor with the Wisconsin State Journal, to talk about the state of Brewers baseball. While it’s been a while since he’s worked for the State Journal, Brophy has been working with Badger Hockey, high school, and even heading south for MLB Spring Training. While it’s been a while since he’s covered sports for the Journal, he’s still as sharp as ever on the state of Wisconsin sports.

While covering spring training, Brophy spent most of his time working with the Cubs. That doesn’t mean he could see just how bad they’d be playing at this point in the season. The problem, Brophy says, is that they have all complimentary players and no stars. Pair that with a weak bullpen, that’s how a team can end up 11 games behind the Brewers.

Speaking of the Brewers, they continue to dominate the league. While they’re pretty likely to see the playoffs, Brophy says, they’ve been working their bullpen hard. On Monday night, the team utilized their 15th starting pitcher. Even Brophy hasn’t heard of these guys, and he covered them in spring training!

Lucas then moves to pick Brophy’s brain to get his take on everything from the changing nature of baseball and college athletics, to Shohei Ohtani and Aaron Judge, to his memories of Willie Mays.

The Wisconsin Sportscast with Lucas & Oates is a Cap Times podcast produced by Nate Wegehaupt. Find it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

Ed Policy Named the New Packers President and Mark Murphy’s Legacy Jun 26, 2024

In this week's episode of The Wisconsin Sportscast, the Green Bay Packers have a new President: Ed Policy. Lucas doesn’t know too much about him, and Oates knows him more from his old man Carmen Policy. What we do know: Ed Policy is a legal guy and has been with the Packers for over a decade.

Now with Mark Murphy out, and not knowing a whole lot about Policy, that means we have one question: What will be the legacy of Mark Murphy? While the Packers haven’t been a “mom-and-pop” operation for a while, he helped turn them into a mega-corporation, says Oates. Just look at Titletown. Teams make money from more than just football these days, for better or worse.

But on the field, Oates says that his changes to the management style had a negative impact on the team. “Historically in Green Bay, when football has been left to football people, the team has done really well,” Oates says. Murphy? Not a football guy. What does that mean for Policy, another legal guy? Only the future can tell us that.

Then, the Florida Panthers beat out the Oilers to win the Stanley Cup. A seven game series that’s frantic and fun? What more can you ask for? But Lucas wants to know: what happened to MVP’s coming from the winning team? Doesn’t matter, says Oates, even if he wanted to see the Canadians win the cup.

Willie Mays has passed away, as another one of sports greats has left us. But Lucas and Oates agree, at least they got to watch him play. Some people will try and argue that others are better, but those arguments come from people who never even saw them play, says Oates.

The Wisconsin Sportscast with Lucas & Oates is a Cap Times podcast produced by Nate Wegehaupt. Find it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

Celtics Are Your NBA Champs, Love-Hate with Luka Jun 19, 2024

In this week's episode of The Wisconsin Sportscast, Boston took home the rings and won the NBA Championship. Which leads to one question: do you love to watch Luka Dončić play, or do you hate watching him play? Oates says you can’t discount his ability, maybe even one of the best. But he has no defense, he likes holding the ball, and he just can’t stop complaining to the officials. Lucas says he’s always been like that, and he still has time to grow, but still, Luke on the floor is the definition of “Love-Hate relationship.”

Then Lucas asks the question: if you’re building a new franchise, who do you grab: Tatum or Brown? Plus, Joe Mazulla has made it to the limelight, but does that really matter? If you grabbed the average person off the street, would they know his name?

Bryson DeChambeau won this weekend’s U.S. Open, beating out Rory McIlroy on some tough greens. It’s not as fun to watch, Oates says, when all you can see is everyone struggling with the greens. But that’s no excuse for McIlroy he says, and that there is something in his head that’s stopping him from winning another major.

The Wisconsin Sportscast with Lucas & Oates is a Cap Times podcast produced by Nate Wegehaupt. Find it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

Dan Hurley Says No To The Lakers Jun 12, 2024

In this week's episode of The Wisconsin Sportscast, Mike Lucas and Tom Oates break down why Dan Hurley would turn down a seven-figure offer with the Lakers to stay with UCONN. For one thing, it simply might not have been enough money. It’s a mom and pop operation! At least says Lucas.

But Oates points out that coaching a college team is much different from coaching a NBA team. Need an example? Lucas has many.

Then, the Badgers basketball team has a new forward: Andrija Vukovic. Hailing from Serbia, Lucas and Oates just aren’t sure what to think about the new signing. Not out of skepticism, but simply because there’s no tape of his playing. But still, this brings the number of new players on the Badgers up to six next season. Is this the new normal? Yes, says Oates.

Caitlyn Clark is back in the news this week, as she fails to make the US Women’s Olympic Basketball team. Oates says that this is because she won’t be playing too much, but this is a mistake. The WNBA has eyes on it, something they haven’t had in a long time. You have to seize the opportunity to help grow the entire sport of women’s basketball. Simply put: Caitlyn Clark is a name, and a name is something women’s basketball needs right now.

The Wisconsin Sportscast with Lucas & Oates is a Cap Times podcast produced by Nate Wegehaupt. Find it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

Kohl Center Reworks Premium Seating in Spite of Fans Jun 05, 2024

In this week's episode of The Wisconsin Sportscast, Mike Lucas and Tom Oates react to the news that the Kohl Center is looking to restrict premium seating as they expand the size of the hockey rink. It’s just another way to spite the longtime fans in favor of the big money donors, Oats says. Both Lucas and Oates have been hearing from angry season ticket holders who are now learning that the seats they’ve held for decades are now moving, possibly all the way up to the 300 section.

Meanwhile, Craig Counsell returned to Milwaukee last week, and it went about as well as expected. Oates says he’s a little surprised it went on as long as it did, but if Counsell was expecting a warm welcome home, well he went home disappointed. And while the Brewers won the series, Lucas says they have to figure out their starting pitchers situation. Robert Gasser is out for elbow soreness, bringing another hit to the already patched-together starting pitching staff.

The Wisconsin Sportscast with Lucas & Oates is a Cap Times podcast produced by Nate Wegehaupt. Find it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

NCAA Settlement a Step Towards Sanity in College Sports May 28, 2024

In this week's episode of The Wisconsin Sportscast, Mike Lucas and Tom Oates react to the NCAA agreeing to a historic settlement to end class-action lawsuits brought by student athletes. Thousands of former and current college players will receive a share of $2.8 billion in damages. The settlement also clears the way, for the first time, for schools to directly pay student athletes through shared revenue plans.

“It’s a first step in regaining control over what’s going on. Reform is needed. Right now, there are no guard rails on the transfer portal or NIL (name, image, likeness) money,” says Oates, a former Wisconsin State Journal sports columnist. “Coaches and administrators will take as much slack as you give them. NIL is so out of control, it’s unbelievable. Something has to be done.”

Oates says the NCAA’s settlement might be a legal framework for schools to treat student athletes like employees.

“This might be a prelude to 60 or 70 schools breaking away and becoming their own bosses,” says Oates. “That way universities can start to bargain for some level of salary cap…and do away with NIL.”

In the meantime, Lucas says fans are becoming fed up with the dramatic roster changes every season. The Wisconsin men’s basketball team lost more than half dozen players to the transfer portal this year, including stars AJ Storr and Chucky Hepburn.

“When talking to some Badger boosters, they are really upset about Chucky Hepburn. That one put them over the edge,” says Lucas. “I don’t hold this personally against Hepburn. He’s just a product of this new system.”

The Wisconsin Sportscast with Lucas & Oates is a Cap Times podcast produced by Nate Wegehaupt. Find it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

Wisconsin High School Basketball Greats May 21, 2024

In this week's episode of The Wisconsin Sportscast, Mike Lucas recently caught Badger alum Sam Dekker hit the game-winning shot for the London Lions in the British Basketball League.

“Isn’t it great to see him still playing the game and still having success at it?”asks Lucas, a Cap Times sports freelance writer and former radio color analyst for the Badgers. “My question to you, Oatesy, where does Sam Dekker fit in the greatest high school players of all-time in the state of Wisconsin?”

Oates thinks Dekker leading Sheboygan Lutheran to a WIAA state title in 2012 qualifies him for the top ten.

“He’s one of the best athletes that has ever played basketball in Wisconsin. His whole game is predicated on movement,” says Oates, a former Wisconsin State Journal sports columnist. “Bo Ryan rode him hard but he could never wipe the smile off of Sam Dekker’s face. He was born to play basketball and you could tell the way he plays.”

Lucas likes that Dekker remains a diehard Milwaukee Brewers fan.

“He loves his Brewers. You talk about a fanatic,” says Lucas. “He’ll get into it with any troll on the internet.”

When pressed by Lucas, Oates says Messmer High School’s John Johnson tops the list of Wisconsin basketball greats. Johnson led Messmer to a state title in 1966.

“John Johnson was just a phenomenal player. He played center, he played point guard, he played everything. He was a great passer, great rebounder, and a great defender,” says Oates. “He ended up averaging 28 points a game in his two seasons at Iowa. And then he had a lengthy NBA career.”

The Wisconsin Sportscast with Lucas & Oates is a Cap Times podcast produced by Dylan Brogan. Find it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

The Taylor Swift of Basketball and the Tom Brady Roast May 14, 2024

In this week's episode of The Wisconsin Sportscast, Mike Lucas highly recommends the new ESPN docuseries on college basketball stars Kamila Cardoso, Kiki Rice, and Caitlin Clark.

“Caitlin Clark is so huge. You just get a better feel for the people around her, the pressure that mounted throughout the season, and how she dealt with it all,” says Lucas, a Cap Times sports freelance writer and former radio color analyst for the Badgers. “After watching it, I have even more respect for (head coaches) Dawn Staley of South Carolina and certainly for Lisa Bluder, who retired from Iowa on Monday.”

Oates, a former Wisconsin State Journal sports columnist, says women’s college basketball has been steadily growing for years.

“Clark handled the spotlight really well. She was the Taylor Swift of basketball and I think it helped the entire sport,” says Oates. “Women’s college basketball has taken a giant leap forward and I think the WNBA is going to experience that as well.”

Also on the podcast, the veteran sports journalists appreciated the digs leveled at Bill Belichick during The Roast of Tom Brady. But not much else.

“I spent three hours watching that and I can’t get it back,” says Lucas. “It was pretty brutal in terms of language and a lot of locker room humor. Some of it had me turning away because it was so crude.”

To that, Oates responds, “This is the new Mike Lucas.”

The Wisconsin Sportscast with Lucas & Oates is a Cap Times podcast produced by Dylan Brogan. Find it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

The Bucks Looked Old in the Playoffs May 07, 2024

In this week's episode of The Wisconsin Sportscast, Mike Lucas and Tom Oates recap the Milwaukee Bucks’ messy season. Oates says the Bucks’ defensive game got better once Doc Rivers became head coach in the middle of the season. But he didn’t think the combination of Damian Lillard and Giannis Antetokounmpo was ever going to work.

“Giannis dominated the ball for years in Milwaukee’s offense. Damian dominated Portland’s offense. Could they have worked that out and gotten along? Probably. But both are at their best when they monopolize the ball,” says Oates, the former Wisconsin State Journal sports columnist. “This was a poorly put together team right from the start. Why do you hire a rookie head coach for a veteran team? That was stupid.”

Lucas says Milwaukee’s roster is looking long in the tooth.

“I just went back and looked at their average age and the money that they are spending on three or four players. They have some issues moving forward,” says Lucas, a Cap Times sports freelance writer and former radio color analyst for the Badgers. “It’s an old, old team. Khris Middleton is 32. Lillard is 33. Brook Lopez is 36! Goodness.”

Also the podcast, the veteran sports journalists review the latest portal prospects added by the Wisconsin men’s basketball team. And Lucas has thoughts on your Milwaukee Brewers.

“Christian Yelich got off to a blazing start. I think he’s missed 17 games now. Boy, they need his bat,” says Lucas. “And I have to admit this, too. I had a lot of trouble seeing Craig Counsell in a Cubs uniform. It just didn’t fit. Craig Counsell, a Cubbie? No.”

The Wisconsin Sportscast with Lucas & Oates is a Cap Times podcast produced by Dylan Brogan. Find it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

The Packers Draft and the Badgers’ Portal Picks Apr 30, 2024

In this week's episode of The Wisconsin Sportscast, Mike Lucas and Tom Oates don’t have many complaints about how Green Bay handled this year’s NFL Draft. Oates says keep an eye on second-round pick, linebacker Edgerrin Cooper.

“Cooper will be the star of this particular draft. If they are going to go to four down lineman they need speed at linebacker to run things down. The Packers really appear to have increased their speed at that position,” says Oates, the former Wisconsin State Journal sports columnist. “I thought Green Bay’s first four picks were outstanding. They nailed areas of need with players they liked.”

Also on the podcast, the veteran sports journalists take a look at the basketball players Wisconsin is picking up from the transfer portal. The Badgers have a commitment from Northern Illinois forward Xavier Amos.

“What really caught my eye is that [University of Virginia] coach Tony Bennett was actively recruiting Amos,” says Lucas, a Cap Times sports freelance writer and former radio color analyst for the Badgers. “He’s from Chicago. Howard Moore will be pleased with that. As a sophomore, he started 25 games. Averaged 14 points and 6 rebounds.”

The Wisconsin Sportscast with Lucas & Oates is a Cap Times podcast produced by Dylan Brogan. Find it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

Wisconsin Basketball Has a Portal Problem Apr 23, 2024

In this week's episode of The Wisconsin Sportscast, Mike Lucas and Tom Oates assess how the transfer portal and name, image, likeness (NIL) money are impacting the Badgers men’s basketball team. Since the season ended, stars Connor Essegian, AJ Storr, and Chucky Hepburn have all sought greener pastures.

“You know what the most sobering thing is for Wisconsin? They aren’t in the top-tier in terms of NIL money…. Now all of a sudden, Wisconsin is a feeder program,”says Oates, the former Wisconsin State Journal sports columnist. “The system is broken. It’s complete chaos. College basketball coaches are pulling their hair out waiting for the next shoe to drop.”

Also on the podcast, the veteran journalists sum up what the Green Bay Packers need heading into the NFL draft. Lucas hopes Green Bay can snag Iowa cornerback Cooper DeJean.

“He’s an impact player. He can play corner or safety,” says Lucas. “I’m not sure DeJean will be available. But the Packers are in a pretty good strategic position. They have five picks that should be premium picks and picks of value.”

The Wisconsin Sportscast with Lucas & Oates is a Cap Times podcast produced by Dylan Brogan. Find it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

Bambi’s Bombers Revisited Apr 16, 2024

In this week's episode of The Wisconsin Sportscast, Mike Lucas and Tom Oates review the 2024 Masters Tournament in which Scottie Scheffler won another green jacket. Tiger Woods made the cut at the Augusta Nationals for a record-setting 24th consecutive time but finished with one of the worst scores of his long career.

“Watching Tiger play was kind of painful. He finished, like, 16 over. 16 over!” says Lucas, a Cap Times sports freelance writer and former radio color analyst for the Badgers. “He looked in rough shape. He was pained. It was like he was struggling just to get up to the green. It reminded me of Willie Mays playing for the Mets or Johnny Unitas throwing passes for the Rams. It was just so out of character.”

Oates says this year’s Masters showed a new generation emerging in professional golf.

“There were a lot of guys, 30 and under, all over that leaderboard. Man, they really crush the ball,“ says Oates, the former Wisconsin State Journal sports columnist. “How demoralizing would it be to play golf with Scottie Scheffler? He hits it 330, straight down the middle, off every tee.”

Also on the show, the veteran journalists are pleased with how the Milwaukee Brewers have played in the first few weeks of the season.

“They’ve been hitting the cover off the baseball,” says Lucas. “It’s like the Bambi’s Bombers revisited.”

Lucas and Oates are loving the recent rule changes enacted by Major League Baseball, especially the pitch clock.

“It’s outstanding…it’s restored some of the game. It restored the stolen base. Offensive baseball had become too one-dimensional,” says Oates. “The Brewers have taken advantage of that so far this year. They’re running. They’re aggressive on the bases. Nice job by [manager] Pat Murphy to recognize that and go with it.”

The Wisconsin Sportscast with Lucas & Oates is a Cap Times podcast produced by Dylan Brogan. Find it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

College Basketball in the Path of Totality Apr 10, 2024

In this week's episode of The Wisconsin Sportscast, Mike Lucas and Tom Oates debrief the men’s and women’s NCAA championship games. Purdue and Iowa both lost to UConn and South Carolina respectively, but at least the Big Ten was represented in the finals of both tournaments.

“I think what happened — if you want to draw parallels between the two — is they both ran into a really good team,” says Oates, the former Wisconsin State Journal sports columnist. “South Carolina is deep and they are good. And the UConn men’s team is a complete team. They waltzed through this tournament two years in a row and that just doesn’t happen.”

Lucas notes that you can’t blame Big Ten stars Zach Edey and Caitlin Clark. They both scored 30 points (or more) in the finals.

“The Boilermakers had eight assists on 24 makes. All eight assists belong to one player, Brandon Smith. Nobody else had an assist in the game!” says Lucas, a Cap Times sports freelance writer and former radio color analyst for the Badgers. “I wish Clark would have had a little help in that title game. The South Carolina bench outscored Iowa by 37 points.”

Also on the podcast, the veteran journalists examine why the Milwaukee Bucks aren’t clicking this season. Finally, Lucas and Oates discuss the solar eclipse.

“I never heard that phrase before, the path of totality,” says Oates. “I’ve also heard it called the zone of totality.”

“The zone of totality?” responds Lucas. “There’s no way that’s played in Wisconsin basketball.”

The Wisconsin Sportscast with Lucas & Oates is a Cap Times podcast produced by Dylan Brogan. Find it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

Pressure is on UConn and the Brewers’ Home Opener Apr 02, 2024

In this week's episode of The Wisconsin Sportscast, Mike Lucas and Tom Oates analyze the men’s NCAA Final Four. Oates thinks UConn is still the team to beat.

“To some extent, the pressure is off Purdue and Alabama for getting to the Final Four. And even if there were pressure on NC State, they’d be oblivious to it. They don’t look like a team that was on the NCAA tournament bubble,” says Oates, the former Wisconsin State Journal sports columnist. “UConn has just dominated teams in this tournament for two consecutive years. There’s a lot of pressure to repeat.”

So far in the tournament, the Huskies’ average margin of victory has been nearly 28 points. The veteran sports journalist thinks Purdue — assuming they overcome No. 11 seed NC State — may be able to stop UConn’s impressive streak.

“What I’m not sure about UConn is their outside shooting. It’s been hit or miss,” says Oates. “So if Purdue’s umbrella of outside shooters are hitting three-pointers, Purdue will win the game.”

Lucas thinks the Boilermakers’ star center Zach Edey will continue to keep frustrating players.

“We’ve seen Edey play really high-level basketball throughout his career. But I’ve never seen him better,” says Lucas, a Cap Times sports freelance writer and former radio color analyst for the Badgers. “And Edey is getting the benefit of the doubt on foul calls. He drew 16 fouls against Tennessee. 16!”

Also on the podcast, Lucas and Oates can’t wait for the Milwaukee Brewers’ home opener.

“It’s a fan’s delight, opening day, because everyone is thinking about the future,” says Lucas. “Optimism covers the entire game itself.”

The Wisconsin Sportscast with Lucas & Oates is a Cap Times podcast produced by Dylan Brogan. Find it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

How Wisconsin Squandered Connor Essegian's Shooting Skills Mar 26, 2024

In this week's episode of The Wisconsin Sportscast, Mike Lucas and Tom Oates react to the news that the Badgers are losing sophomore guard Connor Essegian to the transfer portal. Last season, Essegian made the Big Ten’s All-Freshman team and played in every game. It was a different story this year.

“When Essegian had chances, he didn’t make the most of it. But the coaching staff didn't do him any favors,” says Oates, the former Wisconsin State Journal sports columnist. “There were multiple points this season when they could have used his scoring ability — or even the threat of him scoring Essegian was capable of averaging 11 or 12 points in the Big Ten and they essentially wasted his year.”

Lucas says Essegian remained an upbeat, team player despite averaging 20 fewer minutes per game compared to his first year with the Badgers.

“When he did enter the game, he seemed to rush himself knowing that he might not be out there for very long. So he took shots he wouldn’t have taken otherwise,” says Lucas, a Cap Times sports freelance writer and former radio color analyst for the Badgers. “I wouldn’t be surprised if he goes to Indiana. He’s a Hoosier. They could use some players, too.”

Essegian didn’t see any playing time during Wisconsin’s loss to James Madison in the NCAA men’s basketball tournament. After a pretty good run in the Big Ten tourney, the veteran journalists say the Badgers lost their composure in Brooklyn.

“That was one of the worst first halves maybe ever,” says Lucas. “They picked it up in the second half but where was the fight in the first half?”

The Wisconsin Sportscast with Lucas & Oates is a Cap Times podcast produced by Dylan Brogan. Find it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

Oates Reveals His “Magic Sauce” for March Madness Picks Mar 19, 2024

In this week's episode of The Wisconsin Sportscast, Mike Lucas coaxes Tom Oates into divulging his tips for filling out a bracket in the NCAA men's basketball tournament.

“Take your Final Four and work backward. .... Remember the first weekend is always chaos,” advises Oates, the former Wisconsin State Journal sports columnist. But he says look out for the teams that may be better than they appear on paper. “Auburn is absolutely the most underseeded in the tournament.”

The veteran journalists are also thrilled that the Badgers played up to their full potential in the Big Ten Tournament. Wisconsin defeated No. 3-ranked Purdue to make it to the championship game but fell to offensively strong Illinois.

“I thought we saw the best of point guard Chucky Hepburn against Purdue and Illinois,” says Lucas, a Cap Times sports freelance writer and former radio color analyst for the Badgers. “And a different player — almost each game — is the leading scorer. Which is balanced. But I worry a little about how the Badgers are physically.”

No. 5 seed Wisconsin faces No. 12 seed James Madison in the first round of the NCAA tournament on Friday night. It has the makings of a classic upset, but Oates thinks Wisconsin has the tools to make it through to the next round.

“What James Madison does well is shoot the three with multiple three-pointers and they defend the three well. Wisconsin just has to crush it in the lane,” says Oates. “I think this game comes down to Steven Crowl and Tyler Wahl and how much damage they can do. That or someone like AJ Storr or John Blackwell getting in there and taking it to the rim.”

The Wisconsin Sportscast with Lucas & Oates is a Cap Times podcast produced by Dylan Brogan. Find it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

Will the Packers Regret Cutting Aaron Jones? Mar 12, 2024

In this week's episode of The Wisconsin Sportscast, Mike Lucas and Tom Oates discuss Green Bay adding top-notch running back Josh Jacobs to its roster while releasing longtime Packer Aaron Jones.

“I thought Jones would have been a perfect match with Josh Jacobs,” says Oates, the former Wisconsin State Journal sports columnist. “However, the Packers have a lot of picks in the draft and they can go find themselves another running back. But I can guarantee you one thing, whoever they draft won’t be as good as Aaron Jones.”

The veteran sports journalists also preview the Wisconsin men’s basketball team’s postseason prospects. The Badgers had some discouraging losses in February but delivered an admirable showing during their last regular season game against no. 3 Purdue. Lucas says all eyes are on Wisconsin center Steven Crowl.

“How do you explain Crowl disappearing in some of these games?” asks Lucas, a Cap Times sports freelance writer and former radio color analyst for the Badgers. “He was invisible in the Purdue game except for the foul problems. The Badgers can’t win key games without Crowl.”

The Wisconsin Sportscast with Lucas & Oates is a Cap Times podcast produced by Dylan Brogan. Find it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

Badgers Lack 'Finishing Power' Mar 05, 2024

In this week's episode of The Wisconsin Sportscast, Mike Lucas and Tom Oates continue to wait for the Wisconsin men’s basketball team to shore up its defensive game. The Badgers scored 83 points against the Fighting Illini and still lost by eight points.

“Wisconsin has to play defense for 40 minutes like they play for about 20 minutes every game,” says Oates, the former Wisconsin State Journal sports columnist. “Sometimes, the Badgers just can’t get a stop and it’s been at critical times in games.

Lucas thinks the Badgers have had lackluster ball pressure all season.

“In what’s been the case a lot this year, Wisconsin didn’t have finishing power. They couldn’t close out Illinois when they needed to and they went down in another defeat,” says Lucas, a Cap Times sports freelance writer and former radio color analyst for the Badgers. “And that bench has really shortened up, hasn’t it?”

Also on the podcast, the veteran sports journalists — like basketball fans across the country — have caught Caitlin Clark Fever. Lucas notes the Iowa’s star point guard has broken more than the NCAA’s all-time scoring record.

“She's putting people in the seats and not just at the Carver-Hawkeye Arena, but around the league,” says Lucas. “What a boost for women’s basketball.”

Oates says Clark has earned all the attention.

“Caitlin Clark doesn’t take a backseat to anyone,” adds Oates. “She’s a sensation and fun to watch.”

The Wisconsin Sportscast with Lucas & Oates is a Cap Times podcast produced by Dylan Brogan. Find it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

Much Ado About Court-Storming Feb 27, 2024

In this week's episode of The Wisconsin Sportscast, Mike Lucas and Tom Oates talk about how to deal with college fans storming the basketball court after a big win. After Wake Forest’s recent upset against Duke, fans injured Blue Devils star Kyle Filipowski.

“How do you even contain it? There were kids on the floor before the final second ticked off in that Duke game against Wake Forest,” says Oates, the former Wisconsin State Journal sports columnist. “Security has to really concentrate on the visiting players and coaches because that’s where the problem comes in.”

Lucas says the enthusiasm behind court-storming is integral to the fabric of college athletics.

“But does anyone put their phone down?” asks Lucas, a Cap Times sports freelance writer and former radio color analyst for the Badgers. “Part of the problem with everyone who was storming the floor in that Wake Forest game was no one was paying attention to where they were running.”

The veteran sports journalists also pay tribute to Badger great Howard Moore, who is being honored at the Kohl Center before the Wisconsin men’s basketball game against Illinois on Saturday.

“Man, I miss Howard,” says Lucas. “Howard would keep after players — relentlessly — to get their degree. He wore the ‘W’ on his chest.”

The Wisconsin Sportscast with Lucas & Oates is a Cap Times podcast produced by Dylan Brogan. Find it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

Bo Ryan a “No Brainer” for Basketball Hall of Fame Feb 20, 2024

In this week's episode of The Wisconsin Sportscast, Mike Lucas and Tom Oates provide the history for why former Wisconsin men’s basketball coach Bo Ryan deserves to be inducted in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.

“What he did at UW-Platteville — alone — is worthy of getting him into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame,” says Oates, the former Wisconsin State Journal sports columnist. “Bo didn’t get there by recruiting 5-star players. He’s a phenomenal coach…. It’s ridiculous he’s not in already.”

Lucas says Ryan has great passion for the sport.

“If you watched his practices, he didn’t vary from day one to the final day of the regular season,” says Lucas, a Cap Times sports freelance writer and former radio color analyst for the Badgers. “Bo is a big-time yes.”

The veteran sports journalists also discuss Wisconsin’s recent loss to Iowa and what that means heading into March Madness. The Badgers' shortcoming can be summed up in one word: Defense.”

“Wisconsin still uses Bo Ryan’s defense and it’s very involved with a lot of rules. A lot of rotation,” says Oates. “Wisconsin has made an absolute living out of playing that great team defense but this team doesn’t seem to be real attuned to it, for whatever reason.”

Finally, Lucas thanks listeners for all their support after he shared recently that he’s fighting stage 4 colon cancer.

“Use me as a lesson. I had a colonoscopy many years ago and then I put it off. I was always too busy,” says Lucas. “Do me a favor, do yourself a favor, schedule a colonoscopy. Do it.”The Wisconsin Sportscast with Lucas & Oates is a Cap Times podcast produced by Dylan Brogan. Find it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

Super Bowl Takeaways and the Badger Basketball Slump Feb 13, 2024

In this week's episode of The Wisconsin Sportscast, Mike Lucas and Tom Oates recap the Kansas City Chiefs' victory over the San Francisco 49ers in Super Bowl LVIII. Lucas says the better quarterback won.

“(Chiefs QB) Patrick Mahomes led the team in rushing. He’s got one of the most deceptive gates,” says Lucas, a Cap Times sports freelance writer and former radio color analyst for the Badgers. “I did think it was a bad first half for a Super Bowl. I thought it dragged. I thought there wasn’t much going.”

Oates agrees Mahomes proved why he’s the best quarterback in the league.

“The Niners played some pretty good defense for most of that game. Even the long drives at the end, they gave up ground grudgingly. The Chiefs had to string together some first downs to go up the field,” says Oates, the former Wisconsin State Journal sports columnist. He does think 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan forgot to study the NFL’s new playoff overtime rules.

“He just blew that. As soon as that rule changed about each team being guaranteed a position, they should have looked at the college game and learned something.”

Also on the podcast, the veteran sports journalist discusses whether the Wisconsin men’s basketball team is “fragile” after losing four straight games.

“Where’s the team that kicked Michigan State’s butt at the boards in two games?” asks Oates. “They have strayed from Wisconsin basketball in a number of ways — turnovers, defense, etc.”

Lucas says it doesn’t help that Badgers are without reserve guard Kamari McGee due to injury.

“McGee has been a bit of spark this season coming off the bench because he brings a little fire to the lineup,” says Lucas. “You look at the Badgers' body language during the Rutgers game, there was no fire with any of those guys.”

The Wisconsin Sportscast with Lucas & Oates is a Cap Times podcast produced by Dylan Brogan. Find it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

Wisconsin Falls to Purdue: The Good, the Bad, and Zach Edey Feb 06, 2024

In this week's episode of The Wisconsin Sportscast, Mike Lucas and Tom Oates mull over the Badgers’ close defeat to the Boilermakers at the Kohl Center. Lucas says Wisconsin did alright defensively against Purdue’s towering star center Zach Edey.

“Purdue is a better team. I don’t think there is anything bold about that statement,” says Lucas, a Cap Times sports freelance writer and former radio color analyst for the Badgers. “But when you go three for 19 from the three-point line, zero for 11 from beyond the arc in the second half — the Badgers didn’t give themselves a chance.”

Oates thinks Wisconsin deserves credit for not giving up ground in the paint.

“But for this team to go from good to great, they need to start knocking down threes on a consistent basis.” says Oates, the former Wisconsin State Journal sports columnist. “I’ve said it all year, I think (Badgers guard) Connor Essegian needs to play more.”

The veteran sports journalists also give their takes on Green Bay hiring Boston College head coach Jeff Hafley to be the Packers’ new defensive coordinator. Both think the economics of college football will be sending more coaches to the NFL.

“Don't you think he is another example of a college head coach who has said, ‘I’ve had enough?’” asks Lucas. “‘I can’t deal with with NIL or this transfer portal, I’m outta here.’”

Finally on the show, Lucas predicts San Francisco will win Super Bowl LVIII. Oates is backing Kansas City. Neither understands all the griping over Taylor Swift.

“They put her on screen for like 42 seconds in the last game and people are complaining? So what?” laments Oates. “I do think the NFL is pretty damn happy Taylor Swift is going to be at the Super Bowl. I don’t think there is any question about that.”

Lucas adds, "The Swifites are a powerful group.”

The Wisconsin Sportscast with Lucas & Oates is a Cap Times podcast produced by Dylan Brogan. Find it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

Doc Rivers, Joe Barry’s Successor, and Greg Gard’s Deep Bench Jan 30, 2024

In this week's episode of The Wisconsin Sportscast, Mike Lucas and Tom Oates aren’t surprised by the midseason hiring of Doc Rivers to coach the Milwaukee Bucks. Rivers, an NBA veteran, takes over after the Bucks fired first-time head coach Adrian Griffin after just 43 games.

“When the players lose respect for the coach and tune him out, you just have to go a different direction or you’re going to have to change your whole team,” says Oates, the former Wisconsin State Journal sports columnist. “It was pretty clear the Bucks’ defense wasn’t getting any better.”

“They’ve been just awful on the defensive end,” says Lucas, a Cap Times sports freelance writer and former radio color analyst for the Badgers. “But back to Doc Rivers, people just like him. Players like him. Coaches like him. The media likes him.”

Oates says, “The beauty of the Doc Rivers hire is I think the players will be pulling in the same direction. If nothing else, I think you’ll see an immediate transformation there.”

The veteran journalists also discuss the Green Bay Packers’ search for a new defensive coordinator.

“I just want someone who is aggressive,” says Oates, who adds experience would be a plus, too. “Because there is no breaking-in period. The Packers showed, in the second half of this season, they are ready to win.”

Finally on the podcast, Lucas and Oates preview the Wisconsin men’s basketball upcoming games against Nebraska and Purdue.

“(Point guard) Chucky Hepburn has really changed his game,” says Lucas. “He’s tailored his strengths to what the team needs.”

“We’re getting scoring from Max Klesmit, AJ Storr, John Blackwell, and Steven Crowell. That’s the story of this team,” says Oates. “The guy that’s orchestrating all that is Chucky Hepburn…. He’s running the show.”

The Wisconsin Sportscast is a Cap Times podcast produced by Dylan Brogan. Find The Wisconsin Sportscast with Lucas & Oates on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

The Packers Need A New Defensive Coordinator Jan 24, 2024

In this week's episode of The Wisconsin Sportscast, Mike Lucas and Tom Oates go over the Green Bay Packers’ playoff loss to the San Francisco 49ers. Oates says the Packers outplayed the heavily-favored 49ers most of the game. Even so, mistakes were made.

“The missed opportunities later in the game really hurt. The fourth-and-1. The missed field goal. The two interceptions, one of which was a bad throw and one of which was a bad decision,” says Oates, the former Wisconsin State Journal sports columnist. “Those hurt the most because the game was being decided at that point.”

Lucas just wishes the NFL would figure out how to spot a ball correctly.

“This still boggles most people’s minds, that we’re in 2024 and they don’t have a better system or measurement,” says Lucas, a Cap Times sports freelance writer and former radio color analyst for the Badgers. “Couldn’t they set something up like Wimbledon? Where they have the technology so you know if the ball is in or out. Then show it on the screen. Wouldn’t that be the same thing?”

Lucas and Oates also think the Packers are in need of a coaching shakeup next season.

“If it was my choice, I’d say thank you (to Joe Barry) for the way his defense played late in the year,” says Lucas. “And then I’d find another defensive coordinator.”

Finally, the veteran journalists give their Super Bowl picks. Neither think Kansas City will make it but they both like Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes.

“He’s a difference maker like Tom Brady or Aaron Rodgers in their prime,” says Oates.

“He’s the Max Klesmit of the NFL!” declares Lucas.”

The Wisconsin Sportscast is a Cap Times podcast featuring two of the state's most experienced sports journalists. It’s produced by Dylan Brogan. Find The Wisconsin Sportscast with Lucas & Oates on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

How ‘Bout Them Packers? Jan 16, 2024

In this week's episode of The Wisconsin Sportscast, Mike Lucas and Tom Oates breakdown Green Bay Packers’ unexpected drubbing of the Dallas Cowboys on their home turf. Oates says Packers’ head coach Matt LaFleur outwitted the Cowboys during the 48-32 playoff victory.

“LaFleur has really found himself in the second half of this season. His game plans and his play-calling — he destroyed Dan Quinn, the defense coordinator of the Cowboys, ” says Oates, the former Wisconsin State Journal sports columnist. “The way (running back) Aaron Jones has run the ball, four straight games of over 100 yards, that’s phenomenal. That sets up every Matt LaFleur has always wanted to do as coach.”

The veteran journalists also preview the Packers’ Divisional Round matchup against the heavily-favored San Francisco 49ers on Saturday.

“You take a look at (San Francisco’s) marquee players on offense and it’s staggering,” says Lucas, a Cap Times sports freelance writer and former radio color analyst for the Badgers. “Can the Packers mount any kind of pass rush against quarterback Brock Purdy?”

Oates says it may come down to Packers’ linebacker Rashan Gary.

“I think Rashan Gary is going to be huge in this game. He has to be a real force…. He’s too good to be a non-factor,” says Oates. “If Rashan Gary can make life miserable for Brock Purdy, I think that’s their best chance of winning.”

Whatever the fate of Green Bay in the playoffs, Lucas says Packers quarterback Jordan Love has exceeded expectations.

“Have you ever seen anyone make such huge strides in improvement from the start of the year to the postseason than Jordan Love?” asks Lucas. “Over the last nine games he has 21 touchdowns passes and one pick. He’s playing as well or better than anyone in the league.”

The Wisconsin Sportscast is a Cap Times podcast featuring two of the state's most experienced sports journalists. It’s produced by Dylan Brogan. Find The Wisconsin Sportscast with Lucas & Oates on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jordan Love Playing Like a Franchise QB Jan 10, 2024

In this week's episode of The Wisconsin Sportscast, Mike Lucas and Tom Oates ring in the new year with an analysis of the playoff-bound Green Bay Packers. Oates says Jordan Love's steady improvement this season has won over fans who are used to Hall of Fame level quarterbacks at Lambeau.

“He might just be our franchise quarterback of the future, “says Oates, the former Wisconsin State Journal sports columnist. “He and (head coach) LaFleur have an unbelievable relationship that is really paying off for both of them. LaFleur is running the offensive he’s always wanted to run. And Love is doing it the correct way…I’m not sure that was the case in the past with the former quarterback.”

Lucas notes that the Packers' receiving core is the youngest in the NFL.

“You also have to be impressed by Love’s targets. His receivers. A group of relatively unknowns who just go out and make plays,” says Lucas, a Cap Times sports freelance writer and former radio color analyst for the Badgers. “All these guys have stepped up. Jayden Reed has been tremendous.”

Oates agrees Green Bay's entire offensive has been playing well. But he’s disturbed by one statistic.

“They don’t score quite as many points as their yardage totals might indicate. They go on a lot of long drives that, for one reason or another, don’t end with points,” says Oates.

“They got to finish better,” says Lucas. “And their field goal kicking scares the hell out of me.”

Finally on the show, is the Wisconsin men’s basketball team the second-best in the Big Ten behind Purdue? Lucas and Oates both think so.

“The Badgers have been so good this season at attacking the rim,” says Oates. “If they can get the outside shot game going with what they have already established they can do inside, I think it’s going to be a reality elite-level offensive team.”

The Wisconsin Sportscast is a Cap Times podcast featuring two of the state's most experienced sports journalists. It’s produced by Dylan Brogan. Find The Wisconsin Sportscast with Lucas & Oates on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why LaFleur and the Packers can't fire Joe Barry yet Dec 19, 2023

In this week's episode of The Wisconsin Sportscast, Mike Lucas and Tom Oates discuss whether former Milwaukee Brewer Gary Sheffield should be voted into the Baseball Hall of Fame. Then, the veteran sports journalist get into why Green Bay head coach Matt LaFleur is stuck with defensive coordinator Joe Barry — at least for now.

“There’s no one else (LaFleur) can turn to to run the defense,” says Oates, the former Wisconsin State Journal sports columnist. “You can’t bring in someone from the outside now. That’s just not the way football works. It would be mutiny on the bounty with the staff.”

Lucas says it wasn’t just the Packers’ defense that struggled during Green Bay’s loss to Tampa Bay.

“You can’t cut much slack for Jordan Love, either,” says Lucas, a Cap Times sports freelance writer and former radio color analyst for the Badgers.” He wasn’t sharp.”

Also on the show, Lucas and Oates suss out what the Wisconsin men’s basketball team needs to beat teams like Purdue.

“Wisconsin has to improve in one key area and I think they can play with anybody: Three-point shooting,” says Oates.

Lucas adds, “Hello, Mr. Essegian,” in reference to the slump of previous 3-point ace Connor Essegian.

Finally, a response to a recent post by Lucas on X (formerly Twitter) has the Cap Times reporter questioning everything.

“One of the posts said, ‘You just sound like Tom Oates now,’” Lucas recalls. “How ‘bout that?”

The Wisconsin Sportscast is a Cap Times podcast featuring two of the state's most experienced sports journalists. It’s produced by Dylan Brogan. Find The Wisconsin Sportscast with Lucas & Oates on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.
Program note: The Wisconsin Sportscast crew will take time off over the holidays and anticipates returning with a new episode Jan. 8.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Packers deflated by Giants, but UW volleyball is dancing Dec 13, 2023

In this week's episode of The Wisconsin Sportscast, Mike Lucas and Tom Oates dissect Green Bay’s narrow loss at the Meadowlands to the New York Giants. Oates blames defensive coordinator Joe Barry's defensive strategy.

“What ever happened to the notion that when you face a young quarterback, you blitz the living heck out of him?” asks Oates, the former Wisconsin State Journal sports columnist. “It seems like (Barry) trots the same defense out there, every week, no matter who the opponent is. That’s bad coaching.”

“The Packers had zero sacks,” reiterates Lucas, a Cap Times sports freelance writer and former radio color analyst for the Badgers. “What bothered me most was allowing the Giants to recover after the Packers had driven (for) what looked like the game-winning score, allowing them to get in field goal position. What was that all about?”

Also on the show, the veteran sports journalists discuss the Wisconsin football team's new quarterback recruit: Tyler Van Dyke.

“He’s a pro-style quarterback. ... He’s not a running quarterback,” says Lucas. “I thought that’s what opened up the Wisconsin attack this year with Tanner Mordecai, when he was available. He was almost more efficient running the ball than throwing it.”

Finally, the Badgers volleyball squad is headed back to the Final Four.

“A delight to watch. I’ve never seen athletes seemingly enjoy the competition as much as this volleyball team,” says Lucas. “It could be tense as all get-out on the floor and you see them in the huddle smiling and laughing and dancing to the music!”

"Nothing wrong with that,” says Oates. “It’s sports. It’s supposed to be fun.”

The Wisconsin Sportscast is a Cap Times podcast featuring two of the state's most experienced sports journalists. It’s produced by Dylan Brogan. Find The Wisconsin Sportscast with Lucas & Oates on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Mess Created by NIL Money Dec 05, 2023

In this week's episode of The Wisconsin Sportscast, Mike Lucas and Tom Oates lead off the show by examining the angles on the Milwaukee Brewers $82 million bet on 19-year-old outfielder Jackson Chourio — the largest contract ever offered to a player with no big league experience.

Then, the veteran sports journalist forecast the Green Bay Packers’ chances of making the playoffs.

“Here’s my bold statement: The Packers will be in the playoffs,” says Lucas, a Cap Times sports freelance writer and former radio color analyst for the Badgers. “I ask you, true or false?”

Oates disputes whether that qualifies as a bold prediction but agrees Green Bay’s recent victories over the Lions and the Chiefs give the Packers’ a real shot at a postseason run.

“Now will they do it? I don't think so,” says Oates, the former sports columnist for the Wisconsin State Journal. “I take it back. If 9-8 gets you in (the playoffs), I think they'll get in. I think they’ll go 3-2 down the stretch.”

The Packers are 6-6 with five games to go in the regular season. Also on the show, Lucas and Oates touch on Wisconsin competing in the Reliaquest Bowl on New Year’s Day.

“Man, they got a tough draw against LSU,” says Lucas. The Tigers are ranked 13th in the country.

Oates says it should be a good matchup but is curious how many players will skip the bowl game because they are headed to the NFL draft.

“Will it be the Wisconsin JVs against the LSU JVs?” asks Oates. “Who’s going to play in the game? We don’t know.”

That leads to a discussion about the impact of NIL (name, image, likeness) money in college sports. Lucas says that the going rate for a college quarterback is more than $1.5 million.

“This is not sustainable financially for these schools,” says Oates. “I mean, Deon Sanders’ kid made $4.8 million this year. The midfielder on Colorado’s women soccer team, how did she benefit from NIL?”

The Wisconsin Sportscast is a Cap Times podcast featuring two of the state's most experienced sports journalists. It’s produced by Dylan Brogan. Find The Wisconsin Sportscast with Lucas & Oates on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Grading the Badgers, Eating Crow for Thanksgiving Nov 28, 2023

In this week's episode of The Wisconsin Sportscast, Mike Lucas and Tom Oates analyze how the Badgers performed on the football field this season.

“I think you need to grade it on a bigger curve of where the program headed,” said Oates, the former sports columnist for the Wisconsin State Journal. “The last two games showed that at least mentally, they are in the game.

Oates credits players for holding the team accountable.

“As much as it wasn’t really Wisconsin-like for (safety) Hunter Wohler or (quarterback) Tanner Mordecai to come out and say some of the stuff they did — I thought it really helped.”

Also on the podcast, the veteran sports journalists eat crow after doubting the Green Packers chances against the Detroit Lions.

“How ‘bout them Packers? How ‘bout that Jordan Love? asked Lucas, a Cap Times sports freelance writer and former radio color analyst for the Badgers. “How ‘bout them Lions lying down?”

Finally, Lucas and Oates are pumped about another chapter about to be written about the storied basketball rivalry between Wisconsin and Marquette.

“The Kohl Center should be rocking on Saturday,” said Lucas.The Wisconsin Sportscast is a Cap Times podcast featuring two of the state's most experienced sports journalists. It’s produced by Dylan Brogan. Find The Wisconsin Sportscast with Lucas & Oates on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is Badger Freshman John Blackwell the Next Michael Flowers? Nov 22, 2023

In this week's episode of The Wisconsin Sportscast, Mike Lucas and Tom Oates talk Badgers men's basketball. Wisconsin thumped 24th-ranked Virginia by more than 20 points this week.

“Wisconsin made them look bad, quite frankly. Which is surprising,” said Oates, the former sports columnist for the Wisconsin State Journal. “I thought the Badgers ran some really nice offense … getting inside to Steven Crowl. They attacked the rim. They did things in the paint.”

The Badgers suffer, however, when guard Max Klesmit is off his game, Lucas said.

“They don’t ask him to score a lot but he’s got to score a little bit,” said Lucas, a Cap Times sports freelance writer and former radio color analyst for the Badgers. “You can’t put five guys on the floor and have only three contributing as far as scoring. Klesmit got them off to a good start (against Virginia).”

And keep an eye on freshman guard John Blackwell, he said.

“He might have the potential to be the next Michael Flowers.”

Also on the show, the veteran journalists recapped Wisconsin’s win on the football field against Nebraska and Green Bay Packers quarterback Jordan Love's best game of the season. Finally, Lucas and Oates remembered historic Thanksgiving matchups between Green Bay and Detroit — including when the Lions ruined Vince Lombardi’s perfect season in 1962 and Aaron Rodgers’ game-winning Hail Mary in 2015 that was dubbed the “Miracle in Motown.” Oates witnessed the latter.

“It was the most amazing pass I’ve ever seen in my life. It looked like a punt,” said Oates. “He threw it like 65 yards in the air and it almost hit the roof.”

The Wisconsin Sportscast is a Cap Times podcast featuring two of the state's most experienced sports journalists. It’s produced by Dylan Brogan. Find The Wisconsin Sportscast with Lucas & Oates on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Has Wisconsin Football Gone Soft? Nov 14, 2023

In this week's episode of The Wisconsin Sportscast, Mike Lucas and Tom Oates sum up how Wisconsin Football fans are feeling after the Badgers’ loss to Northwestern.

“If you went to the football game at Camp Randall last Saturday, you left disappointed,” says Lucas, a Cap Times sports freelance writer and former radio color analyst for the Badgers. “Probably a few other words you could throw in there, too.”

“Disgruntled. Angry…. Never a good sign when your home crowd gives up on you,” says Oates, the former sports columnist for the Wisconsin State Journal. “This season has taken a turn that I don’t think anyone foresaw.”

Oates blames the Badgers’ offense for why fans feel disillusioned.

“Their offense is in a state of confusion right now. It’s Wisconsin and they can’t run the ball,” says Oates. “The counter to that was supposed to be this new air raid pass attack — which was going to fill the air without footballs and they were going to move the ball that way. Well they aren’t doing that with any consistency. So what do they have? They have nothing.”

Also on the show, the veteran sports journalists reflect on true Wisconsin greats: The Watt brothers. Finally, Lucas and Oates try to figure out former Packer A.J. Hawk’s role on The Pat McAfee Show.

“Yard art,” says Lucas. “I wonder how much he gets paid for that?”

The Wisconsin Sportscast is a Cap Times podcast featuring two of the state's most experienced sports journalists. It is produced by Dylan Brogan. Find The Wisconsin Sportscast with Lucas & Oates on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brewers Lose Craig Counsell to the Cubs Nov 07, 2023

In this week's episode of The Wisconsin Sportscast, Mike Lucas and Tom Oates grapple with the Chicago Cubs hiring Milwaukee Brewers manager Craig Counsell — for a record-setting salary no less.

“It’s a big loss for the Brewers. And a master stroke for the Cubs. How often does anybody say that?” asks Oates, the former sports columnist for the Wisconsin State Journal. “You help yourself and hurt a rival with one move.”

Lucas is not impressed by the shortlist to replace Counsell.

“There’s not one name that does anything for me,” says Lucas, a Cap Times sports freelance writer and former radio color analyst for the Badgers. “How about (fired Cubs manager) David Ross? He’s available.”

Also on the show, the Wisconsin Badgers’ much-hyped shift to an air raid offense just isn’t working.

“They’ve lost the power running game that made Wisconsin famous,” says Oates. “But they haven’t really developed the air raid attack that they were going to bring in to revolutionize Wisconsin football. I think they are stuck in the middle.”

The two veteran journalists also discuss the Green Bay Packers’ lackluster win over the Los Angeles Rams. Lucas admits he misses Aaron Rodgers.

“At times, Rodgers could be such a pain in the butt,” says Lucas. “But I miss his theatrics and shenanigans and him being the smartest guy anywhere. I miss him, especially on the field.”

Finally, Lucas and Oates remember Indiana legend Bobby Knight … the good and the bad.

“Clearly as a basketball coach, he was so far ahead of the game. His motion offense changed the game of basketball for 40 years,” says Oates. “It saddens me that he was such a bully, such a controversial guy, and so rude to so many people. He could have been a real leader.”

The Wisconsin Sportscast is a Cap Times podcast featuring two of the state's most experienced sports journalists. It is produced by Dylan Brogan. Find The Wisconsin Sportscast with Lucas & Oates on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is Matt LaFleur Starting to Feel The Heat? Oct 31, 2023

In this week's episode of The Wisconsin Sportscast, Mike Lucas and Tom Oates give kudos to the Badgers’ defense during Wisconsin’s failed bid at an upset over Ohio State.

“When you get turnovers, it always makes a defense look good — no matter how many passing yards or how many rushing yards you give up,” Oates, the former sports columnist for the Wisconsin State Journal, says on the Cap Times weekly podcast show.

Oates thinks the loss of running back Braelon Allen to injury, at the end of the first half, was the death knell to the Badgers’ hopes of beating the consistently formidable Buckeyes.

“(Allen) is the one true weapon that Wisconsin has,” says Oates. “They became very one-dimensional without him.”

Also on the show, Lucas agrees with Oates that the Green Bay Packers’ offense is “hideous.”

“Who are we going to blame?” asks Lucas, a Cap Times sports freelance writer and former radio color analyst for the Badgers. “That’s what we’re here for, who are we going to blame!?”

Lucas indicts wide receiver Christian Watson because of his disappointing performance during the Packers’ loss to the Vikings.

“He doesn’t seem to comprehend what it takes to be a receiver. I’ve never seen a guy run so many skewed routes. He doesn’t play with instincts,” says Lucas, who notes a lot of booing on Sunday at Lambeau Field. “You think head coach Matt LaFleur is starting to feel the heat?”

On another topic, the two veteran journalists discussed Wisconsin men’s basketball, which kicks off this week with an exhibition match against UW-Stevens Point. The Badgers appear to be in better shape than last season.

“As you recall there was very little scoring off the bench last season and it derailed them in a lot of games,” says Oates, who saw the Badgers’ practice this week. “There’s a lot of pretty good players here. More depth. When Greg Gard looks down his bench, he sees some answers.”

Finally, are you following the news about Michigan football coach Jim Harbaugh? He’s being investigated over allegations of sign-stealing. Lucas thinks Harbaugh is a “helluva coach” but compares him to a modern-day Eddie Haskell.

“He makes my skin crawl at times,” says Lucas. “Watching Harbaugh is uncomfortable.”

Even so, Lucas and Oates both believe Harbaugh will be returning to the NFL next season.

The Wisconsin Sportscast is a Cap Times podcast featuring two of the state's most experienced sports journalists. It's produced by Dylan Brogan. Find The Wisconsin Sportscast with Lucas & Oates on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Take the Training Wheels Off Jordan Love Oct 24, 2023

In this week's episode of The Wisconsin Sportscast, Mike Lucas and Tom Oates declare two wins for transparency in Big Ten sports. Wisconsin football coach Luke Fickell heeded the call to let his offensive and defensive coordinators speak to the media. And Big Ten coordinator of officiating Bill Carollo and NCAA rules editor Steve Shaw made a point to weigh-in on a controversial call made in the final minutes of Iowa’s 12-10 loss to Minnesota.

The Badgers recovered from a poor first half to defeat Illinois 25-21. Quarterback Braedyn Locke was named Big Ten Freshman of the Week after the comeback win.

“I really liked [wide receiver] Will Pauling and the chemistry that seemingly was developing between Locke and Pauling. I thought Pauling had a heckuva game,” says Lucas, a Cap Times sports freelance writer and former radio color analyst for the Badgers. He’s also impressed by Badger running back Braelon Allen.

“He showed the type of passion that Wisconsin wants to see out of their players. He made it work when they needed it. The second effort out of Braelon was outstanding. He showed a little bit of durability late in the game.”

Also on the show, Lucas asks Oates, “Should Packers fans be worried?”

“They should be very concerned. Green Bay has had some games against weak opponents with plenty of time to prepare. They’ve scored six points in the first half over the last four games,” says Oates, the former sports columnist for the Wisconsin State Journal. “Whenever you get a rebuilding team — and yes, this is a rebuilding team — you want to see improvement. It’s the same with a new regime like Wisconsin. They're in similar boats. You want to see game-to-game improvement.” ‘

Lucas has a message for Packers’ head coach Matt LaFleur: “Take the training wheels off your quarterback!”

Oates agrees: “They’re losing anyway.”

Finally, is Lucas a cranky old man or are you also bothered by Fox Sports broadcasting team Eric Collins and Devin Gardner?

The Wisconsin Sportscast is a Cap Times podcast featuring two of the state's most experienced sports journalists. It is produced by Dylan Brogan. Find The Wisconsin Sportscast with Lucas & Oates on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hey Luke Fickell, Let Your Coaches Speak Oct 17, 2023

Mike Lucas and Tom Oates dive deep into the Wisconsin football program after the Badgers' bruising defeat to the Iowa Hawkeyes. Oates thinks Wisconsin’s new offensive strategy is in limbo.

“Iowa’s defense can seize on something like that and really make you look bad,” says Oates. “Which happened.”

The 15-6 loss to Iowa also sidelined Wisconsin quarterback Tanner Mordecai, who broke his throwing hand during the game. That puts redshirt freshmen Braedyn Locke behind the Badgers’ shaky offensive line.

“[Locke] is more fundamentally adept at handling the air raid offense because he knows the system” says Lucas, noting offensive coordinator Phil Longo’s promise to bring the offensive scheme to Wisconsin this season. “But to be honest with you, I’m not sure what the heck…Phil Longo is running.”

And why isn’t Badgers’ head coach Luke Fickell letting his assistant coaches speak to the media?

“Enlighten us!” says Lucas. “It would be a service to the entire program.”

Finally, will the New York Jets impressive defense give Aaron Rodgers a second chance this season?

The Wisconsin Sportscast is a Cap Times podcast featuring two of the state's most experienced sports journalists. It is produced by Dylan Brogan. Find The Wisconsin Sportscast with Lucas & Oates on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brewers Fall, Packers Stumble, But Will Wisconsin Stand Up to Iowa? Oct 11, 2023

Mike Lucas is struggling with who to like in the MLB playoffs after the Milwaukee Brewers "fell asleep at the plate" in the postseason. Tom Oates isn’t surprised by Green Bay’s loss to Oakland but doesn’t think the Packers’ defense was the problem. Oates is blaming a shaky offensive line, conservative coaching, and quarterback Jordan Love’s slipping QB rating. Lucas is waiting to see how the Packers contend once running back Aaron Jones is healthy.

Also on the show, the history of the Wisconsin versus Iowa football series including the game when the Badgers snapped a 23-game losing streak which caused bars in downtown Madison to run out of beer and sent Elroy "Crazylegs" Hirsch up a pole.

Finally, how are college player licensing agreements affecting Badger football and basketball? It’s not nil.

The Wisconsin Sportscast is a Cap Times podcast featuring two of the state's most experienced sports journalists. It is produced by Dylan Brogan. Find The Wisconsin Sportscast with Lucas & Oates on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bucks Land Lillard, and is Tom a Swiftie? Oct 03, 2023

Mike Lucas and Tom Oates reexamine the Milwaukee Brewers as they head into the Wild Card Series without pitcher Brandon Woodruff. Also on the show, the Milwaukee Bucks needed a player to free up Giannis Antetokounmpo and they might have delivered by snagging Damian Lillard — all due respect to Jrue Holiday. Is it time for the Green Bay Packers to start worrying about Jordan Love’s dismal 56% pass completion rate? The Wisconsin Badgers’ already favorable football schedule just keeps getting better. And is Tom Oates a Swiftie?

The Wisconsin Sportscast is a Cap Times podcast produced by Dylan Brogan.

Music is by Kevin MacLeod.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is Craig Counsell the Best Manager in Baseball? Sep 26, 2023

Mike Lucas and Tom Oates analyze the Milwaukee Brewers’ pennant race, how the MLB’s new rules have brought back old school baseball, and their favorite starting pitcher. Also on the show, the Wisconsin Badgers' pyrrhic victory over the Purdue Boilermakers that left Chez Mellusi with a season-ending injury. Lastly, did you give up on the Green Bay Packers before Jordan Love rallied the team to an 18-17 win over the New Orleans Saints? Love still needs to improve his performance in the pocket but is proving to have the cool, calm demeanor needed to win games.

Fact check: Former Packers’ quarterback Lynn Dickey started his career with Green Bay as No. 10 but eventually switched to No. 12 after being sidelined for several years due to injuries.

The Wisconsin Sportscast is a Cap Times podcast produced by Dylan Brogan. Music is by Kevin MacLeod.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jordan Love’s Abysmal 4th Quarter Sep 19, 2023

This week, Mike Lucas and Tom Oates breakdown Jordan Love’s performance in the Packers’ tough loss to the Falcons, the tush push, and the Badgers’ defense ahead of Wisconsin’s Big Ten opener.

The Wisconsin Sportscast is a Cap Times podcast produced by Dylan Brogan. Music is by Kevin MacLeod.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Bears Still Suck Sep 12, 2023

Mike and Tom expound on why experience matters on the field and in the press box. They also discuss Wisconsin's loss to Washington State, the Badgers’ evolving Air Raid offense, and whether the Packers’ promising start with Jordan Love will translate into a winning season.

The Wisconsin Sportscast is a Cap Times podcast produced by Dylan Brogan. Music is by Kevin MacLeod.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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