MADISON, Wis. -- Five-star high school prospects don't have to worry about whether a college football scholarship offer from Holy Cross represents the best opportunity to play. They also don't make their college team as the last person on the 105-man roster because an injury to another player opened up the final spot.
These stories, from linebacker Jack Cichy and running back Dare Ogunbowale, have typified Wisconsin's football program over the past few decades. They are ties that bind a group of players -- walk-ons and three-star prospects alike -- who carry being overlooked by top college programs as a source of both pride and motivation.