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USA Today
4 days ago
- Sport
- USA Today
ESPN's Football Power Index predicts Wisconsin football's 2025 win total
ESPN's Football Power Index predicts Wisconsin football's 2025 win total It's no secret that Wisconsin football faces a gauntlet this season. Specifically, the Badgers face the No. 3 (Alabama), No. 4 (Ohio State), No. 6 (Oregon), No. 17 (Michigan), No. 27 (Washington), No. 31 (Indiana) and No. 39 (Iowa) teams in ESPN's preseason Football Power Index. The entire slate is by far the toughest in the Big Ten and more challenging than all but one SEC schedule. That context is necessary when discussing Wisconsin's expectations entering the season. The team is fresh off its first losing campaign since 2001. While it appears to have better direction with new offensive coordinator Jeff Grimes in place, it's hard to argue that the program isn't reeling. This brings up an important question: What should be considered a success for Wisconsin football in 2025? Against the team's top-of-the-sport schedule, even a bowl trip could look like a major win. For reference, FPI currently projects Wisconsin's win-loss record at 5.6 - 6.5. That total analyzes how Badgers' rating of 6.3 (No. 38 nationally) compares to the teams it faces. While a startlingly low total on the surface, it suggests that a six-win output is within range. There will be further discussion surrounding what would make Wisconsin football's 2025 season successful. For now, it's worth noting that most major outlets and betting sites are setting a projection at 5.5 wins, with an equal chance to finish in either direction. Contact/Follow @TheBadgersWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Wisconsin Badgers news, notes and opinion
USA Today
04-05-2025
- Sport
- USA Today
Where Wisconsin falls in 247Sports latest Big Ten football power rankings for 2025 season
Where Wisconsin falls in 247Sports latest Big Ten football power rankings for 2025 season Wisconsin is down at No. 14 in 247Sports' latest Big Ten power rankings for the 2025 football season. That slot doesn't come as much of a surprise. The Badgers are just 12-13 in two years under head coach Luke Fickell, plus are outside ESPN SP+'s top 40 entering 2025. That recent track record and a gauntlet schedule combine to create tempered expectations entering a pivotal season for the third-year head coach's tenure. The common perception is that the team will be improved this season, thanks to the notable offseason additions of OC Jeff Grimes, veteran quarterback Billy Edwards Jr. and a new-look defensive front. However, even a better Wisconsin team could produce the same 5-7 final result. That is due to a schedule that includes games against Alabama, Michigan, Iowa, Ohio State, Oregon, Washington, Indiana, Illinois and Minnesota. There's a realistic chance that eight of those nine opponents are ranked at the time they face the Badgers. For more specifics on why Wisconsin sits dangerously close to the Big Ten's bottom tier, here is 247Sports' Carter Bahns' explanation: Luke Fickell loaded up on instant-impact talent on the defensive front, hired a new offensive coordinator and found a proven starting quarterback in Billy Edwards Jr. That is all great, but it comes within the context that Wisconsin was merely a five-win team last season and has not taken a step forward in its record since 2021. There is enough to like about the Badgers to be relatively optimistic about their prospects moving forward, but Fickell needs to produce results very, very soon. As noted, Wisconsin should be much improved compared to the team that closed 2024 with five consecutive losses, including to rivals Iowa, Nebraska and Minnesota by a combined margin of 110-42. However, that forecast won't carry much weight if the team can't take a step forward in the standings for the first time since 2021. Contact/Follow @TheBadgersWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Wisconsin Badgers news, notes and opinion
Yahoo
21-04-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Three takeaways from Wisconsin football's Spring Showcase
The Wisconsin Badgers hosted their 2025 Spring Showcase this past Saturday, giving fans a first glimpse at the 2025 team and how offseason transfer additions will fit into new offensive coordinator Jeff Grimes' scheme. The event also provided head coach Luke Fickell an opportunity to showcase what he's been working on this offseason after an underwhelming 5-7 2024 campaign. Wisconsin added key transfers at many positions of need, including at quarterback and along the defensive line. Those positions were under the spotlight on Saturday as the two spots that the Badgers needed to improve the most. At first glance, it seems as if the coaching staff landed some significant difference-makers in both groups. Advertisement In addition to those who transferred in, the Spring Showcase was also a first glimpse at some of the program's young talent, including class of 2025 early enrollees. Several such players, both on offense and defense, have a chance to make an impact from day one. For more, here are three primary takeaways from Wisconsin's Spring Showcase, plus what each means for the 2025 season: 1. More dynamic offensive play-calling from new OC Jeff Grimes Offensive coordinator Jeff Grimes joined the Badgers this offseason, looking to help the program improve from one of its worst seasons offensively (and overall) in program history. His dynamic, more traditional Wisconsin-style offense was on display during Saturday's showcase with many creative play calls, including end-arounds, screen passes, and fullback dives. Advertisement It's also clear that Jeff Grimes is a lot more comfortable calling plays with his offense under center, which was one of the biggest criticisms of former offensive coordinator Phil Longo and his air-raid offense. Grimes' play-calls also reminded many of the dynamic and unique plays that Paul Chryst employed during his time as Wisconsin offensive coordinator and head coach. However, Grimes' offense fits the modern Big Ten better than Chryst's did with more of an emphasis on passing and quarterback play. 2. Defense has made necessary improvements Wisconsin struggled defensively last season. The unit's output had many fans frustrated, considering the program's reputation for holding their opponents to low-scoring outputs. Defensive coordinator Mike Tressel and head coach Luke Fickell mentioned throughout the offseason that they wanted to add size and depth along the defensive line, a position that in 2024 ranked 121st out of 134 FBS teams in run defense per Pro Football Focus. Improving that status was a key focus of the offseason. On Saturday, it was clear that the coaching staff's hard work has paid off so far. The new and improved Badgers defensive line looks a lot bigger, stronger, and agile than it did last season. Transfers Charles Perkins, Jay'viar Suggs, and Tyreese Fearbry have all impressed early on, while early enrollee Nick Clayton has already made a name for himself early during his short time in Madison. As for the secondary, there were many concerns coming into the spring session that losing key pieces including Hunter Wohler and Xavier Lucas would hurt the defense significantly. So far, the defensive back room has slowly but surely improved, with players including Preston Zachman and Matt Jung making headlines during spring practices. During the spring showcase, both cornerbacks Jaimier Scott and Geimere Latimer put on a show with some nice broken-up and contested passes. The defensive line was clearly the bigger area of concern during the winter for the Wisconsin coaching staff, but seeing progress in the secondary is just as important. 3. Young players are coming into their own Luke Fickell's best skill as a coach is his recruiting. That ability was one of the primary reasons for his success at Cincinnati and why he was Chris McIntosh's choice to succeed Paul Chryst. In his first two full recruiting cycles, Fickell and his staff landed back to back top 25 classes. Those young stars are finally seeing the field, emergences that have been exciting to watch. Advertisement Wide receiver Eugene Hilton has made headlines as one of the most talented receivers on the team, while young defenders, including Clayton and Scott, have excelled during their time in spring practices. Plus, both linebacker Mason Posa and Jaylen Williams weren't able to enroll early like many of the players in the class. The fact that the young guns have played well with neither Posa nor Williams on campus bodes well for the program's future. Overall, there is obviously still work to be done. The offense was shaky during a couple of drives on Saturday, plus there are several injuries at offensive line and receiver that the team needs to overcome. There is still a lot to be excited about with the 2025 team. The new scheme from Jeff Grimes, mixed with some improvements defensively, gives the Badgers a chance to have a better season than last year. Wisconsin's schedule is extremely difficult, but you never know what can happen in college football. Contact/Follow @TheBadgersWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Wisconsin Badgers news, notes and opinion This article originally appeared on Badgers Wire: Wisconsin football Spring Showcase takeaways
USA Today
21-04-2025
- Sport
- USA Today
Three takeaways from Wisconsin football's Spring Showcase
Three takeaways from Wisconsin football's Spring Showcase The Wisconsin Badgers hosted their 2025 Spring Showcase this past Saturday, giving fans a first glimpse at the 2025 team and how offseason transfer additions will fit into new offensive coordinator Jeff Grimes' scheme. The event also provided head coach Luke Fickell an opportunity to showcase what he's been working on this offseason after an underwhelming 5-7 2024 campaign. Wisconsin added key transfers at many positions of need, including at quarterback and along the defensive line. Those positions were under the spotlight on Saturday as the two spots that the Badgers needed to improve the most. At first glance, it seems as if the coaching staff landed some significant difference-makers in both groups. In addition to those who transferred in, the Spring Showcase was also a first glimpse at some of the program's young talent, including class of 2025 early enrollees. Several such players, both on offense and defense, have a chance to make an impact from day one. For more, here are three primary takeaways from Wisconsin's Spring Showcase, plus what each means for the 2025 season: 1. More dynamic offensive play-calling from new OC Jeff Grimes Offensive coordinator Jeff Grimes joined the Badgers this offseason, looking to help the program improve from one of its worst seasons offensively (and overall) in program history. His dynamic, more traditional Wisconsin-style offense was on display during Saturday's showcase with many creative play calls, including end-arounds, screen passes, and fullback dives. It's also clear that Jeff Grimes is a lot more comfortable calling plays with his offense under center, which was one of the biggest criticisms of former offensive coordinator Phil Longo and his air-raid offense. Grimes' play-calls also reminded many of the dynamic and unique plays that Paul Chryst employed during his time as Wisconsin offensive coordinator and head coach. However, Grimes' offense fits the modern Big Ten better than Chryst's did with more of an emphasis on passing and quarterback play. 2. Defense has made necessary improvements Wisconsin struggled defensively last season. The unit's output had many fans frustrated, considering the program's reputation for holding their opponents to low-scoring outputs. Defensive coordinator Mike Tressel and head coach Luke Fickell mentioned throughout the offseason that they wanted to add size and depth along the defensive line, a position that in 2024 ranked 121st out of 134 FBS teams in run defense per Pro Football Focus. Improving that status was a key focus of the offseason. On Saturday, it was clear that the coaching staff's hard work has paid off so far. The new and improved Badgers defensive line looks a lot bigger, stronger, and agile than it did last season. Transfers Charles Perkins, Jay'viar Suggs, and Tyreese Fearbry have all impressed early on, while early enrollee Nick Clayton has already made a name for himself early during his short time in Madison. As for the secondary, there were many concerns coming into the spring session that losing key pieces including Hunter Wohler and Xavier Lucas would hurt the defense significantly. So far, the defensive back room has slowly but surely improved, with players including Preston Zachman and Matt Jung making headlines during spring practices. During the spring showcase, both cornerbacks Jaimier Scott and Geimere Latimer put on a show with some nice broken-up and contested passes. The defensive line was clearly the bigger area of concern during the winter for the Wisconsin coaching staff, but seeing progress in the secondary is just as important. 3. Young players are coming into their own Luke Fickell's best skill as a coach is his recruiting. That ability was one of the primary reasons for his success at Cincinnati and why he was Chris McIntosh's choice to succeed Paul Chryst. In his first two full recruiting cycles, Fickell and his staff landed back to back top 25 classes. Those young stars are finally seeing the field, emergences that have been exciting to watch. Wide receiver Eugene Hilton has made headlines as one of the most talented receivers on the team, while young defenders, including Clayton and Scott, have excelled during their time in spring practices. Plus, both linebacker Mason Posa and Jaylen Williams weren't able to enroll early like many of the players in the class. The fact that the young guns have played well with neither Posa nor Williams on campus bodes well for the program's future. Overall, there is obviously still work to be done. The offense was shaky during a couple of drives on Saturday, plus there are several injuries at offensive line and receiver that the team needs to overcome. There is still a lot to be excited about with the 2025 team. The new scheme from Jeff Grimes, mixed with some improvements defensively, gives the Badgers a chance to have a better season than last year. Wisconsin's schedule is extremely difficult, but you never know what can happen in college football. Contact/Follow @TheBadgersWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Wisconsin Badgers news, notes and opinion
USA Today
20-04-2025
- Sport
- USA Today
Wisconsin football 2025 defense depth chart projection after Spring Showcase
Wisconsin football 2025 defense depth chart projection after Spring Showcase Wisconsin's defense is unlikely to lead the headlines after Saturday's Spring Showcase. That isn't due to a lack of quality, as the unit won the event 24-17 despite several explosive plays from the first and second-team offenses. Instead, it's about the context surrounding the other side of the football. Wisconsin entered the spring practice session with major questions on offense after the unit held the team back through the first two years of the Luke Fickell era, especially during the team's five-game losing streak to close the 2024 season. The program hired Jeff Grimes this offseason to return it to its pro-style roots and redirect the unit's trajectory. While significant improvement is expected, major question marks still exist, specifically after a few key transfer departures and an injury to the projected starting left tackle. While many will focus on the performance of Grimes' unit, Fickell and Mike Tressel's defense quietly needs a resurgent year. The Badgers allowed 23.1 points per game last season, including a combined 110 to rivals Iowa (42), Nebraska (44) and Minnesota (24). A bowl trip won't be possible without those numbers improving. The program bolstered the unit in the winter transfer window, adding 12 players, many of whom project to start. With more still to change as the spring transfer cycle continues, here is an updated look at how that defensive unit lines up. (For more, here is our look at the team's updated offensive depth chart) Defensive Tackle Starters: Ben Barten, Parker Petersen (transfer), Corey Walker (transfer) Backups: Jay'Viar Suggs (transfer) Charles Perkins (transfer), Dillan Johnson Wisconsin remade its entire front seven during the winter window, including with experienced defensive tackles Walker, Petersen and Suggs. The team is suddenly deep at the position. That is a stark difference from where it stood at the end of 2024. Outside Linebacker Starters: Darryl Peterson, Mason Reiger (transfer) Backups: Aaron Witt, Tyreese Fearbry (transfer), Sebastian Cheeks Wisconsin struggled to generate pressure on opposing quarterbacks throughout all of 2024. Reiger and Fearbry enter to change that rate. Cheeks should be a popular breakout pick at the position after two sacks in limited action last season. Inside Linebacker Starters: Christian Alliegro, Tackett Curtis Backups: Antarron Turner (transfer), Tyler Jansey, Thomas Heiberger This was a minor position of need entering the spring transfer window, with Curtis still a question mark after transferring in before last season. Heiberger was a popular breakout candidate after moving to the position, although he's currently out with a knee injury. Cornerback (boundary) Starters: Ricardo Hallman, Nyzier Fourqurean Backups: D'Yoni Hill (transfer), Geimere Latimer (transfer),Jay Harper, Jaimier Scott Hallman and Fourqurean will form one of the Big Ten's better cornerback duos. Both Hill and Latimer transferred in before Fourqurean successfully petitioned for an extra year of eligibility. The two should factor into the lineup, just not as the primary starters. Cornerback (slot) Starter: Austin Brown Backup: Owen Arnett Brown will see the field in 2025, whether at slot cornerback or as a hybrid safety. The versatile defender tallied 51 tackles, two for loss, a sack, a forced fumble and three pass deflections in 2024. He should be a popular pick to lead the Badgers in turnovers forced. Safety Starters: Preston Zachman, Matthew Traynor (transfer) Backup: Matt Jung (transfer), Charlie Jarvis, Remington Moss The second safety position next to Zachman is still up for grabs. Both Traynor and Jung transferred in with top-end production at a lower level, plus with several years of eligibility remaining. It will be worth watching how the two are utilized and whether one emerges as a locked-in starter. Specialists Kicker: Nathanial Vakos Punter: Atticus Bertrams Long Snapper: Eli Stein (transfer) Punt Returner: Trech Kekahuna Kick Returner: Vinny Anthony Wisconsin's punt and kick returner jobs will likely remain in flux as the season approaches. As of April 20, Kekahuna and Anthony are two clear candidates to capture the respective roles. While the Badgers' offense still has major needs with the spring window ongoing, their defense is mostly set. It is in a strong position entering the 2025 season thanks to a fantastic winter portal window performance. Contact/Follow @TheBadgersWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Wisconsin Badgers news, notes and opinion
