MERKEL — If the Merkel Badgers are to take a step forward in 2022, it might come with a heavy porcine influence. 

Sporting a large, experienced offensive line affectionately known as “The Hogs,” Merkel is hoping to get a consistent, dominating push up front in 2022 — good enough to push the Badgers straight into the playoffs. 

“I’ve always called my offensive line “the Hogs,” second-year coach Will Kates said. “We just embrace playing in the slop, getting nasty and getting muddy.

“That’s just our mentality up front.”