Ball returns to Badgers backfield - WXOW News 19 La Crosse, WI – News, Weather and Sports |

MADISON, Wisconsin (WXOW) - Badger senior runningback Montee Ball was knocked down. But, it seems he's getting up pretty quickly.

Ball participated in practice Friday for the first time of the preseason in a helmet and shoulder pads. Head Coach Bret Bielema told the media Ball will be in full pads for Monday's practice.

Over those pads, he's expected to wear a green jersey, keeping him out of full contact. But, Ball is expected to be full go after next week. That's a week earlier than Coach Bielema had originally hoped for.

You can bet Ball is happy about that.

"I think he's very excited," Bielema said. "I think it's something he had dreamed about, obviously coming back a year ago when he said he was going to stay, [to] come into his senior year and accomplish a lot of things just for himself. But, I think he has the team goals in mind, and I think he's wired that way. So, I think for him to get back out here will juice this whole place up."