Want more Big 10 coverage? Here is a preview of the Big 10 season based on Vegas’ projected win totals. More Big 10 previews: Minnesota, Nebraska.
Storylines Entering the Season
Entering his third year as head coach, Luke Fickell faces a pivotal season for the Wisconsin Badgers. After a disappointing 5–7 record in 2024, which snapped a 22-year bowl streak, the pressure is on to restore the program’s physical identity and compete in a brutal Big Ten schedule. Key storylines include:
- Quarterback Stability with Billy Edwards Jr.: The transfer from Maryland, who threw for 2,881 yards and 15 touchdowns in 2024, is expected to provide consistency at quarterback. His ability to reduce interceptions (nine last season) and mesh with new offensive coordinator Jeff Grimes’ scheme will be crucial.
- Return to a Run-First Identity: Wisconsin’s success has historically relied on a dominant ground game. The Badgers were 12–0 when rushing for over 150 yards under Fickell but struggled (1–13) when they didn’t. With a rebuilt offensive line and young running backs like Darrion Dupree and Dilin Jones, recommitting to the run is paramount.
- Defensive Rebuild Under Mike Tressel: The defense, which allowed 165 yards per game on the ground in 2024 (worst since 2005), has been bolstered with transfers like EDGE Corey Walker. The “bigger and badder” front seven aims to restore Wisconsin’s rugged reputation.
- Brutal Schedule Challenges: Wisconsin faces one of the toughest schedules in the nation, with road games at Alabama, Michigan, and Oregon, plus a home clash with Ohio State. Navigating this gauntlet to reach bowl eligibility is a tall order.
Key Players
- Billy Edwards Jr., QB (Sr.): The transfer quarterback brings experience and mobility, critical for Grimes’ balanced offense. His 65% completion rate and dual-threat ability make him a focal point.
- Ricardo Hallman, CB (Sr.): A first-team All-Big Ten cornerback with seven interceptions in 2024, Hallman anchors a talented secondary.
- Darrion Dupree, RB (Soph.): A healthy Dupree’s speed and vision are key to reviving the run game. Dupree has been injured, however, opening up the starting role for Cade Yacamelli.
- Corey Walker, EDGE (Sr.): A transfer from Western Michigan with eight sacks in 2024, Walker is expected to elevate the pass rush.
- Vinny Anthony II, WR (Sr.): A deep threat and dynamic kick returner (27.9 yards per return, 10th in FBS), Anthony is a breakout candidate.
Wisconsin’s Full Schedule
| Date | Opponent | Location | Time/TV |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aug. 28 | Miami (OH) | Madison, WI | 9:00 PM ET/ESPN |
| Sep. 6 | Middle Tennessee | Madison, WI | TBD |
| Sep. 13 | at Alabama | Tuscaloosa, AL | TBD |
| Sep. 20 | BYE | – | – |
| Sep. 27 | Maryland | Madison, WI | TBD |
| Oct. 4 | at Michigan | Ann Arbor, MI | TBD |
| Oct. 11 | Iowa | Madison, WI | TBD |
| Oct. 18 | Ohio State | Madison, WI | TBD |
| Oct. 25 | at Oregon | Eugene, OR | TBD |
| Nov. 1 | BYE | – | – |
| Nov. 8 | Washington | Madison, WI | TBD |
| Nov. 15 | at Indiana | Bloomington, IN | TBD |
| Nov. 22 | Illinois | Madison, WI | TBD |
| Nov. 29 | at Minnesota | Minneapolis, MN | TBD |
Key Games Preview
- at Minnesota (Nov. 29)
- Why It Matters: The battle for Paul Bunyan’s Axe is Wisconsin’s oldest rivalry, and after a 24–7 loss in 2024, reclaiming the trophy is a top priority. A win could secure bowl eligibility and provide momentum for 2026.
- Key Matchup: Wisconsin’s run defense vs. Minnesota’s rushing attack. The Gophers went 7–0 when rushing for over 110 yards in 2024, and stopping Darius Taylor will be critical for Wisconsin’s rebuilt front seven.
- Iowa (Oct. 11)
- Why It Matters: Wisconsin has lost three straight to Iowa, including a 42–10 rout in 2024. A home win against the Hawkeyes could signal progress in Fickell’s rebuild and boost confidence before facing Ohio State.
- Key Matchup: Billy Edwards Jr. vs. Iowa’s secondary. Iowa’s defense thrives on forcing turnovers, and Edwards must protect the ball to keep Wisconsin competitive.
- at Alabama (Sep. 13)
- Why It Matters: A non-conference road trip to Tuscaloosa tests Wisconsin early against a top-tier SEC program. After a 42–10 loss to Alabama in 2024, a competitive showing would validate the Badgers’ improvements.
- Key Matchup: Wisconsin’s offensive line vs. Alabama’s defensive front. Protecting Edwards and establishing the run with Dupree will be essential to avoid another blowout.
Season Outlook
Wisconsin faces a daunting schedule, with likely losses to Alabama, Michigan, Ohio State, and Oregon. However, winnable games against Miami (OH), Middle Tennessee, Maryland, Washington, and Illinois provide a path to 5–6 wins. The Badgers’ success hinges on Edwards’ efficiency, a revitalized rushing attack, and a defense that can stop the run. A 6–6 record and bowl eligibility would mark progress, but the brutal schedule makes every win hard-earned.
