Nov 18, (V7N) - Wisconsin has fired offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach Phil Longo following a 16-13 loss to top-ranked Oregon on Saturday. The decision comes after a disappointing offensive season, with the Badgers ranked 97th nationally in scoring offense (23.9 points per game) and 91st in total offense (363.1 yards per game).

Head coach Luke Fickell announced the move in a statement, acknowledging that the team is not where it needs to be offensively. Fickell emphasized that the decision was made with the best interests of the team in mind as the program continues to evaluate and strive for success. He expressed gratitude to Longo for his contributions over the past two seasons, but emphasized that the Badgers still have a lot to play for as the season progresses.

Longo, 56, had been Wisconsin's offensive coordinator for 23 games after previously serving as offensive coordinator at North Carolina (2019-22) and Ole Miss (2017-18). Despite his previous success at those programs, Wisconsin's offense struggled under his leadership, including a three-game losing streak where the team averaged just 12 points per game. The Badgers have been particularly ineffective, scoring 13 or fewer points in four games this season.

Injuries have also played a role, with starting quarterback Tyler Van Dyke suffering a season-ending ACL injury in Week 3. Braedyn Locke, who stepped in as the starter, has faced consistency issues, throwing for 359 yards against Purdue but only 96 yards against Oregon and struggling in losses to Iowa and Oregon.

As of now, Fickell has not announced a replacement for Longo, and Wisconsin (5-5, 3-4 Big Ten) will look to rebound with a visit to Nebraska on Saturday.

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