Best of luck, P.J.

You're probably wondering why I haven't commented at all about P.J. Hill's decision to enter the NFL draft. Well, I was in New York at the time it happened (lucky enough to see Big Ten Bill Bottinick several times) and by the time I got back it seemed like old news.

So here's what I think:

Not a good move for P.J. or the program. He won't get picked until the second day, and will have a tough time making an NFL roster. He will miss out on an opportunity to go down as one of the all-time greats in UW history and rush for 1,000 yards four times. He will not have the opportunity to be a senior leader on a team that will definitely need them. Our running back situation in 2009, while seemingly solid with John Clay and Zach Brown back, is uncertain beyond that, and in years past we've needed three backs quite often.

That said, I totally understand P.J.'s decision and hope it works out for the best. He's had injury problems, and as a running back, you can only take so many of those. With Clay emerging and Brown deserving more playing time, his carries might have been cut to a career low in 2009. The offensive line will feature three new starters next year, and the fullback will be new (Bradie Ewing?), which will make holes fewer and further between. He's been in Madison for four years, and had the college experience. And his last collegiate performance was a solid one against a good Florida State defense.

Many of the comments from fans following this announcement have focused on P.J.'s flaws (he got caught from behind twice against FSU, he dances too much, etc.), and those are legit, but he was a good college running back that lots of teams could have used. His presence on next year's roster could have really helped in what will be a rebuilding season.

And I liked the fact that he always had a big smile on his face.

Best of luck in the pros, P.J., we're pulling for you.