The University of Wisconsin football team has brought in another skilled assistant coach, welcoming Scott Power to the staff.
Power is set to take over as the assistant defensive backs coach, a position that became available when Jack Cooper was elevated to safeties coach after Alex Grinch left for the defensive coordinator position at UCF.
Previously, Power served as associate head coach, defensive coordinator, and safeties coach at Western Michigan under Lance Taylor. In his single season as defensive coordinator, Power’s unit ranked 108th in total defense, conceding an average of 31.3 points per game, placing them 107th nationally. His defense also struggled statistically, finishing 122nd in EPA per play (0.13), 125th in EPA per dropback, and 96th in EPA per rush attempt, according to Game on Paper.
Power’s coaching background includes defensive coordinator roles at Louisiana Tech, Stephen F. Austin, Texas A&M Commerce, Central Washington, and Marian. A Wisconsin native, he played linebacker at UW-Platteville, the site of the Badgers’ fall camp under head coach Luke Fickell.
This hire adds to Coach Fickell’s offseason changes, which have utilized the NCAA’s new rule permitting unlimited on-field coaches. Power becomes the second former Western Michigan coach to join Fickell’s staff this winter, following receivers coach Jordan Reid. The Badgers have also enhanced their coaching staff by hiring Steve Rolan as an assistant receivers coach, Joe Ludwig to support tight ends, and promoting Tuf Borland from graduate assistant to linebackers coach.
It’s important to note that Wisconsin’s secondary has seen significant changes this offseason, with several players leaving through the transfer portal, including four cornerbacks and two young safeties. There remains uncertainty regarding the situation of Xavier Lucas.
On a positive note, standout cornerback Ricardo Hallman’s decision to return provides much-needed stability to the secondary. The position group will rely on the expertise of coach Paul Haynes and Power to help rebuild the defensive depth.
As the program approaches a critical 2025 season under Fickell, Power’s addition is part of broader efforts to strengthen Wisconsin’s coaching staff and enhance the performance of the defense under Mike Tressel. As Power continues to develop in his role, he may become a valuable internal candidate for future promotions.
