Wisconsin Badgers Fire Offensive Coordinator Phil Longo After Struggles

On Sunday, November 17, 2024, the Wisconsin Badgers announced the firing of their offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach, Phil Longo. This decision comes after the team’s disappointing 16-13 loss to No. 1 Oregon in Week 12, highlighting the ongoing struggles of the offense under Longo’s leadership[1][3].

Head Coach Luke Fickell made the announcement, stating, “This morning, I informed Phil Longo that he will no longer serve as our offensive coordinator. After continuing to evaluate the program, I decided we are not where we need to be and believe this decision is in the best interest of the team.”[3][4].[4]

Longo’s tenure with the Badgers was marked by underwhelming offensive performance. His unit ranked 91st in the nation in total offense with 363.1 yards per game and 98th in scoring offense with 23.9 points per game. Despite a midseason winning streak, the offense failed to show significant improvement, even dealing with the setback of a season-ending injury to starting quarterback Tyler Van Dyke[1].

Longo joined the Wisconsin staff in January 2023, bringing experience from his previous roles at North Carolina, Ole Miss, and Sam Houston State. His firing after just 23 games under Coach Fickell is a significant move as Fickell continues to shape the program[3].

The Badgers, currently 5-5 on the season, are set to face Nebraska and Minnesota in their final two games. They need just one win to secure bowl eligibility for the 23rd consecutive season. However, the immediate future of the offense remains uncertain as the team has not announced who will be calling plays for the remaining games[3].