UW walk-on Russell in line for kicker job - WQOW TV: Eau Claire, WI NEWS18 News, Weather, and Sports

Madison (WQOW) -- It's not every year that a walk-on freshman becomes a key contributor for a major college program, but that very well could be the case for Badgers kicker Jack Russell.

Russell is ahead of sophomore Kyle French on Wisconsin's depth chart and coach Bret Bielema says Russell has been the more consistent kicker in camp. French, who started four games last season, will still be the kickoff specialist. While there is still time for a change on the depth chart, Russell says he'll continue to prepare as if he's got the job.

"Every day I got out and see how I can get better with my kicks that day. If I have a mental breakdown or I have a physical break down I see what's wrong with it and just build upon that," says Russell.

"I do think Jack reminds me a little bit -- I'm not saying he's going to be this guy -- but he reminds me a little bit of Taylor Mehlhaff," says Bielema. "When Taylor first came in, he was really confident. (Jack's) a very very mature kid. Even though he looks like he is ten, he acts like he's 25. So Jack has a lot of upside."

The Badgers open up the season in less than a week against Northern Iowa.