Last season was not an easy one for University of Wisconsin middle linebacker Elijah Hodge, who started 11 games despite a chronic knee injury.

It might turn out to be a walk in the park compared to this one.

The Badgers have elected to go with more speed at the position to help against eight spread offenses on their schedule.

As a result, Hodge, a junior, has dropped to third on the depth chart behind junior Jaevery McFadden and sophomore Culmer St. Jean.

Instead of sulking or threatening to transfer, Hodge came to the coaches and requested to play on as many special teams units as possible.

And defensive coordinator Dave Doeren knows Hodge will be there Saturday during the opener against Akron, helping in any way he can.

"It's a tribute to his character," Doeren said. "He hasn't complained. He comes to work every day. He asks, 'What can I do?' He wants to be out there really bad."

Hodge still managed to finish third on the team in tackles last season with 67. He had 7.5 tackles for loss and blocked a kick.

He's a solid run defender who most likely can help in some defenses, like goal line or short yardage.

"It's not like he's just standing there happy," Doeren said. "At the same time, he hasn't stuck his lip out. He hasn't complained. He comes to work. It's really a sign of his toughness and how much he loves this team."

Sorensen should start Sophomore Blake Sorensen is expected to get his first start at weakside linebacker, due to the sprained knee suffered by Jonathan Casillas two weeks ago.

Doeren, who coaches the linebackers, couldn't be happier with how Sorensen has prepared and is anxious to see him play.

"I'm excited for him," Doeren said. "I think he's going to play really well. He's prepared well, he's confident, he watches a lot of tape on his own. The guys have helped him. He's not afraid to raise his hand when he doesn't get something, so that's good."

Concerns over Beckum?

UW offensive coordinator Paul Chryst was not about to dismiss the significance of senior tight end Travis Beckum missing most of camp with a hamstring injury.

Even if Beckum's hamstring is fine, which is no sure thing, it will take time for him to return to form. Given that he missed almost the entire spring following shoulder surgery, it's an even bigger concern.

"I think there's something to be said for beating yourself into playing shape," Chryst said. "You go through camp, you're sore and pretty soon, whether you're used to it or whether your body adjusts to it (you get ready).

"Camp is the best speed of the game you can get. You're going against, in theory, your best players on defense. (And) just conditioning. All the things you value about training camp, you miss out on. Now, can we overcome it? Absolutely. (But) it does come at a cost."

Tough customer

UW coach Bret Bielema had a story this week to illustrate why freshman walk-on Bradie Ewing, from Richland Center, will get a chance to play this season, mostly on special teams.