­­­MADISON, Wisc. - Defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard was named interim head coach of the Wisconsin football team, announced by UW Director of Athletics Chris McIntosh. Leonhard replaces Paul Chryst, who was in his eighth season as the Badgers' head coach.

Leonhard spoke to the media on Sunday evening at Camp Randall Stadium. Leonhard offered insight on the direction of the program and his transition into the interim head coaching role.

From his opening statement..
 "Obviously, (it's a) very emotional day for myself and our staff and our players. We have a tremendous amount of respect for Coach Chryst and everything he's done for this program...

"He mentored me as I got into coaching. He hired me with zero coaching experience and made me his coordinator a year later. So, it's a very emotional day for myself and with that being said, it's a dream for myself coming out of that nightmare. I just want to respect him and his family in all ways. This place means a lot to myself and it means so much to everyone who is committed to be here with the athletic department."

On the challenges ahead..
"Number one is the emotion. You mentioned the players. The majority of these players, a huge determining factor in coming to Wisconsin is Coach Chryst. So, they're very shaken with the news. We understand that our five-game resume this year is not where we want it. We have not been playing up to our capabilities. Even before this news, there were some hard conversations that were had today between coaches players and the staff of how get it corrected. So, I think the emotions: being very open and real about where we currently are and what we can do to win this coming Saturday."

On the opportunity to take the reins of the program for the rest of the season..
"This place means a lot to me. I really felt like I grew up here. I've talked about that many times. I really became who I am at the University of Wisconsin and in this football program and around so many people that are still here today. So, to have an opportunity to be in this position is not one that I take lightly and (I'm) very excited for. (There are) very mixed emotions at this point but I feel like I can take this opportunity and help this place grow. That's why I came back a number of years ago and that's why I haven't left and that's the mission that I want to continue forward with our guys and just getting them to understand the trust, the confidence, that we have in this group of men and that we will get this thing going the right direction and it's going to happen sooner (rather) than later."