We know just about every Wisconsin Badgers fan wants to forget the 2025 football season. But looking back, most oddsmakers and projection models had the Badgers winning five games or less.
Those projections were right, as the Badgers finished a dismal 4-8.
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However, there’s reason for at least some optimism this fall.
Though Wisconsin has a tough season opener against Notre Dame at Lambeau Field, its schedule isn’t the bear it was last season. Most projections have the Badgers’ over/under number for victories at 6½.
But because UW doesn’t play defending national champion Indiana, Ohio State, Oregon or Michigan this season in the 18-team Big Ten, ESPN gives it a better than 50% chance to win eight games, including its last four against Rutgers, Maryland, Purdue and Minnesota.
If that model proved correct, the Badgers would finish 8-4 overall and 6-3 in the Big Ten. And it would likely get coach Luke Fickell off the hot seat.
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Wisconsin Badgers football team practices at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin running back Juju Pope (20) is shown during football practice Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers football team practices at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin running back Juju Pope (20) is shown during football practice Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers football team practices at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin defensive lineman Charles Perkins (30) is shown during football practice Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers football team practices at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin head coach Luke Fickell is shown during football practice Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers football team practices at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin wide receiver Jaylon Domingeaux (9) is shown during football practice Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers football team practices at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin linebacker Drew Braam (55) is shown during football practice Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers football team practices at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin quarterback Carter Smith (5) is shown during football practice Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers football team practices at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin offensive lineman Kevin Heywood (55) is shown during football practice Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers football team practices at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin offensive lineman PJ Wilkins (71) is shown during football practice Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers football team practices at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin wide receiver Kash Brock (11) and safety Will Mikonowicz (25) are shown during football practice Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers football team practices at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin defensive lineman Dillan Johnson (76) is shown during football practice Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers football team practices at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin offensive lineman Brady Bekkenhuis (54) is shown during football practice Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers football team practices at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin running back Mason Lane (38) is shown during football practice Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers football team practices at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin offensive lineman Barrett Nelson (70) and quarterback Danny O’Neil (18) are shown during football practice Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers football team practices at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin wide receiver Zion Legree (24) and safety Luke Emmerich (20) are shown during football practice Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers football team practices at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin defensive lineman Charles Perkins (30) is shown during football practice Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers football team practices at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin defensive line coach E.J. Whitlow is shown during football practice Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers football team practices at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin linebacker Tyreese Fearbry (7) is shown during football practice Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers football team practices at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin cornerback Javan Robinson (2) is shown during football practice Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers football team practices at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin offensive linemen Colin Cubberly (78) and Austin Kawecki (51) are shown during football practice Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers football team practices at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin safety Raphael Dunn (27) is shown during football practice Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers football team practices at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin defensive lineman Nolan Vila (92) is shown during football practice Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers football team practices at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin defensive back Bryce West (5) is shown during football practice Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers football team practices at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin defensive back Cai Bates (3) is shown during football practice Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers football team practices at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin quarterback Carter Smith (5) during football practice Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers football team practices at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin quarterback Danny O’Neil (18) is shown during football practice Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers football team practices at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin quarterback Danny O’Neil (18) is shown during football practice Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers football team practices at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin quarterback Deuce Adams (8) is shown during football practice Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers football team practices at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin tight end Ryan Schwendeeman (84) is shown during football practice Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers football team practices at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin offensive lineman Austin Kawecki (51) is shown during football practice Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers football team practices at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin offensive lineman Aiden Dirksen (65) is shown during football practice Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers football team practices at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin offensive lineman Cam Clark (53) during football practice Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers football team practices at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin offensive lineman Ryan Cory (50) during football practice Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers football team practices at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin offensive lineman Austin Kawecki (51) is shown during football practice Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers football team practices at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin offensive lineman Austin Kawecki (51) is shown during football practice Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers football team practices at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin offensive lineman Colin Cubberly (78) during football practice Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers football team practices at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin offensive lineman Aiden Dirksen (65) is shown during football practice Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers football team practices at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin linebacker Mason Posa (8) is shown during football practice Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers football team practices at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin linebacker Ashton Fickell (37) is shown during football practice Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers football team practices at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin linebacker Tyreese Fearbry (7) is shown during football practice Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers football team practices at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin linebacker Drew Braam (55) is shown during football practice Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers football team practices at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin quarterback Ryan Hopkins (10) is shown during football practice Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers football team practices at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin quarterback Ryan Hopkins (10) is shown during football practice Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers football team practices at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin quarterback Ryan Hopkins (10) is shown during football practice Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers football team practices at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin offensive coordinator Jeff Grimes is shown during football practice Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers football team practices at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin offensive coordinator Jeff Grimes is shown during football practice Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers football team practices at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin running back Abu Sam III (3) is shown during football practice Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers football team practices at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin running back Abu Sam III (3) is shown during football practice Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers football team practices at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin defensive lineman Junior Poser (97) is shown during football practice Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers football team practices at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin defensive lineman Djidjou Ban (90) is shown during football practice Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers football team practices at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin wide receiver Eugene Hilton Jr. (13) during football practice Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers football team practices at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin wide receiver Tyrell Henry (0) is shown during football practice Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers football team practices at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin wide receiver Tyrell Henry (0) is shown during football practice Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers football team practices at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin head coach Luke Fickell is shown during football practice Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers football team practices at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin football general manager Morocco Brown is shown during football practice Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers football team practices at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin football general manager Morocco Brown, right, is shown during football practice Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers football team practices at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin football general manager Morocco Brown, right, is shown during football practice Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
Sept. 6: vs. Notre Dame at Lambeau Field: 7%
Sept. 12: vs. Western Illinois: 99%
Sept. 19: vs. Eastern Michigan: 94.7%
Sept. 26: at Penn State: 19.7%
Oct. 3: vs. Michigan State: 69%
Nov. 14: at Maryland: 53.8%
Nov. 21: at Purdue: 61.3%
Nov. 27: vs. Minnesota: 68.4%
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Wisconsin Badgers spring football practice at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin running back Nate Palmer (15) is shown during spring football practice Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers spring football practice at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin running back Nate Palmer (15) is shown during spring football practice Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers spring football practice at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin head coach Luke Fickell is shown during spring football practice Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers spring football practice at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin quarterback Carter Smith (5) is shown during spring football practice Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers spring football practice at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin quarterback Ryan Hopkins (10) and offensive lineman Evan Brown (64) are shown during spring football practice Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers spring football practice at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin running back Harrison Bortolotti (32) is shown during spring football practice Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers spring football practice at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin wide receivers Malachi Coleman (16) and Keeyshawn Tabuteau (14) are shown during spring football practice Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers spring football practice at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin wide receiver Keeyshawn Tabuteau (14) is shown during spring football practice Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers spring football practice at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin running back Bryan Jackson II (21) is shown during spring football practice Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers spring football practice at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin quarterback Danny O’Neil (18) and defensive back Matthew Traynor (13) shown during spring football practice Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers spring football practice at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin running back Abu Sama III (3) is shown during spring football practice Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers spring football practice at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin running back Bryan Jackson II (21) is shown during spring football practice Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers spring football practice at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin running back Abu Sama III (3) is shown during spring football practice Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers spring football practice at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin tight end Jackson McGohan (87) blocks Wisconsin safety Matt Jung (29) is shown during spring football practice Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers spring football practice at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin quarterback Colton Joseph (1) is shown during spring football practice Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin. \
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers spring football practice at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin offensive coordinator Jeff Grimes is shown during spring football practice Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers spring football practice at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin tight end Grant Stec (85) is shown during spring football practice Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers spring football practice at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin quarterback Ryan Hopkins (10) is shown during spring football practice Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers spring football practice at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin quarterback Ryan Hopkins (10) is shown during spring football practice Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers spring football practice at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin quarterback Deuce Adams (8) is shown during spring football practice Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers spring football practice at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin quarterback Carter Smith (5) is shown during spring football practice Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers spring football practice at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin cornerback Javan Robinson (2) is shown during spring football practice Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers spring football practice at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin cornerback Javan Robinson (2) is shown during spring football practice Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers spring football practice at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin head coach Luke Fickell is shown during spring football practice Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers spring football practice at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin defensive line coach E.J. Whitlow is shown during spring football practice Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers spring football practice at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin defensive line coach E.J. Whitlow is shown during spring football practice Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers spring football practice at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin defensive end Charles Perkins (30) is shown during spring football practice Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers spring football practice at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin defensive lineman Djidjou Bah (90) is shown during spring football practice Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers spring football practice at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin defensive lineman Arthur Scott III (96) is shown during spring football practice Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers spring football practice at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin defensive lineman DeNigel Cooper (93) is shown during spring football practice Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers spring football practice at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin defensive lineman Xavier Ukponu (94) s shown during spring football practice Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers spring football practice at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin defensive lineman Jacob Anderson (95) is shown during spring football practice Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers spring football practice at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin defensive lineman Nolan Vils (92) is shown during spring football practice Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers spring football practice at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin defensive lineman Dillan Johnson (76) is shown during spring football practice Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers spring football practice at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin defensive lineman Russell Hammond IV (91) is shown during spring football practice Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers spring football practice at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin head coach Luke Fickell is shown during spring football practice Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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Wisconsin Badgers spring football practice at Camp Randall Stadium
Wisconsin running back Nate Palmer (15) is shown during spring football practice Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
CBS Sports is thinking along the same lines. It has the Badgers finishing over .500 in the Big Ten and 7-5 overall. Though it projects the Badgers finishing tied for 10th in the conference, seven victories would make them bowl-eligible:
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“Luke Fickell’s 2026 season comes with pressure, but a 7-5 finish would be enough to stabilize his job security, given the program’s trajectory. The Badgers have endured roster turnover and uneven offensive production, yet still have the physical identity to grind out wins in the Big Ten. Improvement along the line of scrimmage with portal reinforcements should be enough to push Wisconsin back into bowl eligibility.”
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See inside Wisconsin Badgers’ fourth spring football practice of 2026
Wisconsin Badgers quarterback Colton Joseph (1) looks to his left during a spring practice at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison on March 26, 2026.
(John Steppe / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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See inside Wisconsin Badgers’ fourth spring football practice of 2026
Wisconsin Badgers quarterback Colton Joseph (1) looks to his left during a spring practice at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison on March 26, 2026.
(John Steppe / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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See inside Wisconsin Badgers’ fourth spring football practice of 2026
Wisconsin Badgers defensive coordinator Mike Tressel (right) talks with linebacker Mason Posa (left) during a spring practice at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison on March 26, 2026.
(John Steppe / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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See inside Wisconsin Badgers’ fourth spring football practice of 2026
Wisconsin Badgers quarterback Danny O’Neil (18) watches a spring practice at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison on March 26, 2026.
(John Steppe / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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See inside Wisconsin Badgers’ fourth spring football practice of 2026
Wisconsin Badgers quarterback Colton Joseph (1) goes through a drill during a spring practice at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison on March 26, 2026.
(John Steppe / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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See inside Wisconsin Badgers’ fourth spring football practice of 2026
Wisconsin Badgers quarterbacks coach Kenny Guiton oversees a drill during a spring practice at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison on March 26, 2026.
(John Steppe / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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See inside Wisconsin Badgers’ fourth spring football practice of 2026
Wisconsin Badgers quarterback Carter Smith (5) throws a pass during a spring practice at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison on March 26, 2026.
(John Steppe / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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See inside Wisconsin Badgers’ fourth spring football practice of 2026
Wisconsin Badgers quarterback Ryan Hopkins (10) prepares to throw a pass during a spring practice at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison on March 26, 2026.
(John Steppe / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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See inside Wisconsin Badgers’ fourth spring football practice of 2026
Wisconsin Badgers quarterback Deuce Adams looks to throw during a spring practice at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison on March 26, 2026.
(John Steppe / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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See inside Wisconsin Badgers’ fourth spring football practice of 2026
Wisconsin Badgers quarterback Ryan Hopkins looks to throw during a spring practice at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison on March 26, 2026.
(John Steppe / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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See inside Wisconsin Badgers’ fourth spring football practice of 2026
Wisconsin Badgers wide receiver Shamar Rigby blocks for running back Darrion Dupree during a spring practice at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison on March 26, 2026.
(John Steppe / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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See inside Wisconsin Badgers’ fourth spring football practice of 2026
Wisconsin Badgers running back Nate Palmer carries the ball during a spring practice at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison on March 26, 2026.
(John Steppe / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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See inside Wisconsin Badgers’ fourth spring football practice of 2026
Wisconsin Badgers wide receiver Eugene Hilton Jr. carries the ball on an end-around route during a spring practice at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison on March 26, 2026.
(John Steppe / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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See inside Wisconsin Badgers’ fourth spring football practice of 2026
Wisconsin Badgers running back Abu Sama III carries the ball during a spring practice at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison on March 26, 2026.
(John Steppe / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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See inside Wisconsin Badgers’ fourth spring football practice of 2026
Bradie Ewing (left), the Wisconsin Badgers’ director of football alumni relations, attends a spring practice at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison on March 26, 2026.
(John Steppe / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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See inside Wisconsin Badgers’ fourth spring football practice of 2026
Wisconsin Badgers cornerbacks coach Robert Steeples (center) oversees a drill during a spring practice at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison on March 26, 2026.
(John Steppe / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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See inside Wisconsin Badgers’ fourth spring football practice of 2026
Wisconsin Badgers wide receiver Langdon Nordgaard participates in a drill during a spring practice at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison on March 26, 2026.
(John Steppe / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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See inside Wisconsin Badgers’ fourth spring football practice of 2026
Wisconsin Badgers running back Mason Lane blocks cornerback Carsen Eloms during a spring practice at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison on March 26, 2026.
(John Steppe / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
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See inside Wisconsin Badgers’ fourth spring football practice of 2026
The Wisconsin Badgers football staff hosts recruits during a spring practice at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison on March 26, 2026.
(John Steppe / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
Big Ten title odds and College Football Playoff odds for Wisconsin
If betting on longshots is your thing, BetMGM has the Badgers at plus-15000 to win the Big Ten title. Perhaps throwing a dart at the College Football Playoff board is the better play – the Badgers are at plus-2500.
National championship odds for Wisconsin
So you want to bet on the impossible dream of the Badgers standing on a podium, holding a crystal football? It’s probably not a good idea to go all-in. FanDuel has the Badgers’ national-championship odds at plus-60000.
This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Will Badgers have winning record? What national media, oddsmakers say
