In a significant shift in the college football landscape, quarterback Billy Edwards Jr. has announced his transfer from the Wisconsin Badgers to the Texas Tech Red Raiders. The move, which was confirmed earlier this week, is expected to have a major impact on both programs, with Edwards poised to take the reins of Texas Tech’s offense for the 2025 season. Edwards’ decision to leave Wisconsin after a promising start to his college career is seen as a game-changer for both him and the Red Raiders as they look to continue their rise in the Big 12 Conference.
Billy Edwards Jr., a talented and versatile quarterback, joined Wisconsin in 2023 after transferring from the University of Maryland. At Wisconsin, he showed glimpses of his potential, showcasing his ability to make plays both through the air and with his legs. His performances in the 2023 season, including a standout showing in the Music City Bowl, helped solidify his place as one of the most exciting young quarterbacks in college football. Edwards passed for over 2,800 yards, threw for 15 touchdowns, and rushed for nearly 150 yards and five touchdowns. Despite these flashes of brilliance, the competition at Wisconsin became intense, and Edwards’ role in the offense started to fluctuate.
After much speculation and discussion throughout the offseason, Edwards made the decision to enter the transfer portal. His decision to leave Wisconsin was driven by a desire to find a new environment that would allow him to thrive as a starting quarterback. Edwards expressed excitement about the opportunity to lead a high-powered offense and play in a system that aligns more closely with his strengths as a dual-threat quarterback.
In his statement regarding the transfer, Edwards shared his gratitude for his time at Wisconsin but emphasized that he was looking forward to the new challenge ahead. “I’ve loved my time at Wisconsin, and I’ve learned so much, both on and off the field. But I believe this move to Texas Tech is the right step for me at this point in my career,” Edwards said. “I’m excited to join a program with such a rich football tradition and to compete at the highest level. Texas Tech has an exciting offensive system, and I’m eager to get started and help lead this team to success.”
Texas Tech, under head coach Joey McGuire, has been making strides in recent years, and the addition of a quarterback like Edwards is seen as a crucial move to take the program to the next level. McGuire, known for his offensive-minded approach, is excited about the prospect of working with Edwards and utilizing his skill set in Texas Tech’s up-tempo, pass-heavy offense. “Billy is a dynamic playmaker with the ability to change the game with both his arm and his legs,” McGuire said. “We’re thrilled to have him join our program, and we believe he’s the type of leader who can help us compete at the highest level in the Big 12.”
For Texas Tech, Edwards’ arrival comes at a critical time, as the team looks to build on a successful 2024 campaign and compete for a spot in the Big 12 Championship picture. With Edwards leading the charge, the Red Raiders are hoping to take a major step forward in what is expected to be a highly competitive conference in 2025.
As Edwards begins his new chapter at Texas Tech, all eyes will be on him as he works to establish himself as one of the top quarterbacks in the Big 12. His move to the Red Raiders has created excitement among the fan base, and there are high expectations for his ability to revitalize Texas Tech’s offense and lead them to new heights in the coming season. The 2025 season is shaping up to
