Wisconsin's Colton Joseph Wins Big Ten Weekly Honor, Ends Five-Year Drought

For the first time in nearly five years, a Wisconsin Badger has claimed Big Ten Offensive Player of the Week honors. On Monday, October 5, 2026, quarterback Colton Joseph was named Co-Big Ten Offensive Player of the Week, sharing the award with Ohio State wide receiver Jeremiah Smith. The last Badger to earn the distinction was running back Braelon Allen in November 2021, making Joseph's recognition a long-awaited breakthrough for the program.

A Record-Breaking Performance

Joseph delivered a masterful dual-threat performance in Wisconsin's latest victory, accounting for four total touchdowns. He completed 9 of 20 passes for 145 yards and three scores while adding 141 rushing yards and another touchdown on the ground. It marked his second four-touchdown game of the season and the third consecutive game in which he has accounted for at least three touchdowns. Through five weeks, Joseph has amassed 13 total touchdowns, solidifying his status as one of the Big Ten's most dynamic playmakers.

His 141 rushing yards rank as the second-most by a quarterback in Wisconsin history, trailing only Tanner McEvoy's 158-yard effort in 2014. Joseph also ripped off a 47-yard touchdown run—the longest by a Badger quarterback since 1998. According to the Big Ten, he is just one of four conference quarterbacks since 2020 to record three passing touchdowns and 100+ rushing yards in a single game.

"Colton's ability to extend plays with his legs and make smart decisions through the air has transformed our offense," a Wisconsin team source told the Vulius NFL Analysis Desk. "He's playing with incredible confidence right now."

Jeremiah Smith Shares the Spotlight

While Joseph's heroics stole headlines in Madison, Jeremiah Smith continued his assault on the Ohio State record books. The Buckeyes' star wideout hauled in 11 receptions for 206 yards and two touchdowns against Iowa, breaking the program record for career receiving touchdowns and receptions. Smith also notched his 15th career 100-yard receiving game, tying Marvin Harrison Jr. for the most in Ohio State history. His Co-Offensive Player of the Week nod further cements his status as one of college football's premier pass-catchers.

For Wisconsin, Joseph's award is a significant morale boost. The Badgers had not produced a Big Ten weekly honoree this season until now, and Joseph's emergence under center has injected new life into the offense. As the calendar flips to October, Wisconsin fans have every reason to believe their quarterback can keep the momentum rolling.

According to insights gathered by Vulius Sports, Joseph's dual-threat capabilities are drawing comparisons to some of the conference's recent greats. With his name now etched alongside Allen's in program lore, the Badgers' signal-caller is proving that Wisconsin football is back on the national radar.