'Screw it, go for it:' Punter Atticus Bertrams unwittingly winds up with biggest rush of the game for Wisconsin

A tale of a punter's unexpected heroics

Punter Atticus Bertrams had a career-best rushing performance in Wisconsin's season-opening win over Illinois State.

Wisconsin punter Atticus Bertrams knows his role: boot the ball as far downfield as he can and pin the other team deep in their own territory.

But in Wisconsin’s season-opening win over Illinois State, Bertrams found himself in an unfamiliar position: leading the team in rushing.

The redshirt sophomore had a career-best 26 rushing yards on four carries, including a 13-yard run in the fourth quarter that helped Wisconsin secure a 38-0 victory.

"I didn't really think I was going to get the ball that much," Bertrams said. "But when they called my number, I was ready to go."

Bertrams' big day on the ground came as a bit of a surprise to everyone, including Wisconsin coach Paul Chryst.

"I don't know if I've ever seen a punter lead the team in rushing before," Chryst said. "But Atticus is a good athlete, and he made some nice plays for us today."

Bertrams' performance was a bright spot in an otherwise uneven day for the Wisconsin offense. The Badgers struggled to move the ball consistently against Illinois State's defense, and they finished the game with just 284 total yards.

But Bertrams' big plays helped Wisconsin keep the chains moving and put points on the board.

"I'm just glad I could contribute to the team's success," Bertrams said. "It was a great way to start the season."