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The Denver Broncos have selected Wisconsin RB Montee Ball with the 58th overall pick in the 2013 NFL Draft.
A surprising pick with RB Eddie Lacy still on the board, the Broncos now have a player who will push Willis McGahee and Knowshon Moreno as bell-cow back.
We've picked Wisconsin RB Montee Ball. Good size back who had tremendous production in college. Will add great dimension to run game.
— John Elway (@johnelway) April 27, 2013
Bell's best quality, perhaps? His vision.
So you drafted a Badger? Montee Ball Edition
SB Nation's Badgers blog breaks down Montee Ball's fit in the NFL.
Ball had 55 touchdowns in the last two years, carrying the football 663 times. While his Wisconsin offensive line was NFL-caliber, Ball made the most of every carry. A patient back who is dangerous in the open field, John Elway and company were apparently sold on Ball early on.
Ball owns NCAA and Big Ten records with 83 total touchdowns and 77 rushing touchdowns respectively. A two-time All American, Ball rushed for 5,140 rushing yards on 924 carries (5.6 yard average) in Wisconsin.
I'm surprised the Broncos went Ball here. I would have preferred Lacy, but Ball is the safer pick. Lower ceiling, higher floor. What say you?