Linebacker Tackett Curtis began his next chapter with a slower start than expected, spending much of January recovering from surgery to correct a sports hernia. This period of recovery also gave him time to reflect on his decision to leave USC and Southern California, ultimately returning east to join Wisconsin. The transition was a significant one, as Curtis sought a fresh start away from his former team.
In a twist of fate, while recovering in Wisconsin’s football facility, Curtis was reminded of his past in an unexpected way. One day, the door opened, and to his surprise, Alex Grinch, his former defensive coordinator at USC, walked in. Grinch, who had recruited Curtis during his high school days, was in Wisconsin to interview for the safeties coach position. Curtis was stunned by the encounter, and immediately called his father Moses.
“You ain’t gonna believe,” Curtis said to his dad, “who I just saw.” The reunion between Curtis and Grinch was a brief but significant moment, a reminder of Curtis’ roots at USC. Despite the changes in their respective paths, they shared a moment of connection. Grinch had always been a strong advocate for Curtis, and now, as Curtis was settling into Wisconsin’s program, Grinch re-entered his life, albeit in a new role.
After transferring from USC, Curtis arrived at Wisconsin in what his father described as a “damaged goods” situation. Curtis had to overcome personal and professional challenges, but Grinch’s support during this transition proved valuable. As Curtis worked his way back to full health, Grinch’s familiar presence and encouragement helped ease the adjustment.
On September 7, Curtis made his debut for Wisconsin in a victory over South Dakota. The sophomore linebacker contributed five tackles in the game, marking his first action in a Badgers jersey. After the game, Curtis was recognized as the player of the game, and head coach Luke Fickell called him up to speak to the team. As he stood, Grinch was there, showering him with praise for his performance, which brought back memories of their time together at USC.
“It’s kinda weird,” Curtis said, reflecting on the moment. “It kinda took me back to USC for a minute.” The experience of being recognized and praised by Grinch was a reminder of how far Curtis had come, both personally and professionally, since his days at USC. While he never liked to dwell on the past, this reunion was a moment of reflection.
Curtis, a fearless young man who grew up riding motorcycles through the backcountry roads of Louisiana, was once a prized recruit for USC. In his true freshman season, he had earned a starting role at middle linebacker in 2023. However, things began to unravel, and despite the efforts of head coach Lincoln Riley and his staff to keep him, Curtis ultimately decided to transfer after the season.
Curtis’ decision to leave USC was not without its complexities. As his father explained, Curtis was uncertain about USC’s commitment to developing its defense. Despite Riley’s promises to fix the issues, Curtis felt his development would be better served elsewhere. It was a difficult decision, but Curtis believed it was the right one for his future.
When Wisconsin came into the picture, it offered Curtis a chance to play in a scheme more suited to his strengths. After much reflection, Curtis transferred to Wisconsin, seeking a program where he could thrive without constantly worrying about fitting into a rigid defensive system. His decision to leave USC was ultimately about finding the right fit for his playing style.
Curtis’ transition to Wisconsin was a much better fit for his personality and playing style. His father described the program as more “blue collar,” which suited Curtis well. The coaching staff, led by head coach Luke Fickell and defensive coordinator Jim Tressel, created an environment where Curtis could develop as a linebacker in a way that aligned with his strengths. The shift in defensive philosophy allowed Curtis to flourish in a new role, something he had been seeking when he left USC.
At USC, the defense had undergone significant changes under new staff, including a transformation in how linebackers were used. Key players like Mason Cobb and Eric Gentry had flourished under the new system, showcasing the potential for growth within USC’s defense. Curtis, however, had made his decision to leave, believing that a fresh start was necessary for his development.
Despite leaving USC, Curtis still maintains close relationships with many of his former teammates. He frequently keeps in touch with his former roommate, starting left tackle Elijah Paige. Curtis and his family continue to support USC from a distance, especially after the team’s season-opening victory over LSU, a game that brought back memories of a program he nearly transferred to before settling on Wisconsin.
When asked if he regrets his decision, Curtis remains firm in his choice. “No,” he replied. Curtis is excited about what lies ahead for him at Wisconsin and believes the program is on the rise. “I think we got something going here,” he said. “We’re growing something big.” Despite the unanswered questions of his past, Curtis is focused on the future and confident in his new path with the Badgers.
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