FILE - Wisconsin quarterback Graham Mertz (5) throws a pass against Rutgers during the first half of an NCAA football game, Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021, in Piscataway, N.J. Wisconsin’s fortunes the last two seasons generally have depended on how well quarterback Graham Mertz has protected the football. (AP Photo/Noah K. Murray, File)

FILE - Wisconsin quarterback Graham Mertz is shown during the second half of the Las Vegas Bowl NCAA college football game against Arizona State, Thursday, Dec. 30, 2021, in Las Vegas. Wisconsin’s fortunes the last two seasons generally have depended on how well quarterback Graham Mertz has protected the football. (AP Photo/L.E. Baskow, File)