Sep 6, 2025; Madison, Wisconsin, USA; Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders quarterback Nicholas Vattiato (11) warms up before a game against the Wisconsin Badgers at Camp Randall Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kayla Wolf-Imagn Images Kayla Wolf, Kayla Wolf-Imagn Images
Middle Tennessee struck first and hung tough for much of the first half, but Wisconsin’s firepower took over after halftime in a 42-10 loss at Camp Randall Stadium. The Blue Raiders managed just 33 rushing yards and surrendered five sacks, unable to keep pace with the Badgers’ balanced attack. Here’s whose stock rose — and whose fell.
Stock Up
Nahzae Cox, WR
Cox gave MTSU’s offense a spark with a game-long 37-yard reception and finished with three catches for 75 yards. He stretched Wisconsin’s secondary and reminded fans that he can be a big-play threat in an otherwise inconsistent passing game.
Damonte Smith, DB
Smith came up with a critical interception late in the first half, setting up the Blue Raiders’ lone touchdown. He also chipped in three tackles and showcased his ability to make momentum-shifting plays against a Power Five opponent.
Stock Down
Offensive Line
The front five was overwhelmed by Wisconsin’s defensive front, surrendering five sacks and paving the way for just 1.2 yards per rush. That lack of protection derailed any chance of sustaining momentum.
Nicholas Vattiato, QB
Vattiato completed 20 of 31 passes for 197 yards and a touchdown, but he also threw a costly interception and was sacked three times. While not entirely his fault, his inability to consistently extend plays hurt MTSU’s chances to keep pace.
Run Game
The rushing attack never found traction. Lead back Jekail Middlebrook was held to just 27 yards on 12 carries, and as a team MTSU failed to break a run longer than 15 yards. Without balance, the offense became predictable.
Holding Steady
Muaaz Byard, LB
Byard led the defense with nine tackles, including 1.5 for loss. He continues to be a reliable anchor for the Blue Raiders’ defense, even against elite competition.
Closing
Middle Tennessee showed flashes early but couldn’t hold up against Wisconsin’s talent and depth. As the Blue Raiders prepare for conference play, how players like Cox and Byard continue to build momentum — and whether the offensive line and run game can rebound — will be crucial in shaping their season.
About the Author
Dalton Tinklenberg is the Founder and Media Director of The Scouting Depot, where he leads comprehensive coverage of college and professional football. He is an active member of some of the most respected organizations in sports journalism, including the Football Writers Association of America (FWAA), Pro Football Writers of America (PFWA), Maxwell Football Club, Online News Association (ONA), National Football Foundation (NFF), and the Associated Press Sports Editors (APSE).
Before launching The Scouting Depot, Dalton worked with Blue HQ Media, where he covered major sporting events such as the Indianapolis 500, the College Football Playoff, and the Pro Football Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony.
Through his professional affiliations and on-the-ground experience, Dalton combines deep knowledge of the game with recognized standards of storytelling, editorial excellence, and authenticity in sports coverage.
