Unraveling Wisconsin's 2025 Football Schedule Challenges
This Isn't the Big Ten West Anymore
The Wisconsin fanbase had certain expectations when it came to the new era of the Big Ten. However, the 2024 schedule provided a glimpse of what was to come, with several tough games against top opponents. But the 2025 schedule takes it to a whole new level. The Badgers face Alabama in the nonconference, two of the top five teams in the sport (Ohio State and Oregon), and another pair of rebuilding powers (Michigan and Washington). Alongside these tough matchups, they also have to contend with a group of 'lighter' but still challenging games against Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, and Minnesota. This new reality demands that Wisconsin ascend to the top tier of team quality if they want to compete.
It's clear that the Big Ten has become more competitive, and Wisconsin must rise to the occasion. The days of an easier path through the conference seem to be behind them. This schedule serves as a wake-up call for the Badgers and their fans, highlighting the need for continuous improvement and a commitment to excellence.
October…
Wisconsin's month of October is set to be one of the most challenging four-game stretches in its history. The Badgers will travel to Michigan, face Iowa at home, take on Ohio State at home, and then head to Oregon. This lineup presents both opportunities and risks. On one hand, every game is a premier matchup, which means there will be no room for hangover performances like in the current season. On the other hand, it's hard to envision more than one win in this stretch.
The Iowa matchup holds particular significance as it is the most winnable game and serves as a valuable measuring stick for the program's health. If Wisconsin can secure a win against Iowa, it could set the tone for the rest of the month. However, Luke Fickell and his staff will need to bring their A-game to have a chance against the other top opponents in October.
The Closing Stretch is Manageable
The 2024 standings painted a picture of a difficult closing stretch for Wisconsin, with Indiana at 11-1 and in the College Football Playoff, Illinois at 9-3, and Minnesota at 7-5. But it's important not to overreact to this year's results. If Wisconsin returns to the caliber of play that many expect under Fickell, the closing stretch can be manageable.
Each of these programs has had their ups and downs over the last half-decade, and Wisconsin must take into account their overall body of work. If they can play up to their potential, they have a chance to finish the season strong and build on their momentum.
More Let-Down Spots if the Badgers Don't Improve Their Consistency
One of Wisconsin's biggest struggles in 2024 was in the games immediately following hard-fought losses to top-ranked opponents. They suffered defeats to rivals Iowa (42-10) and Nebraska (44-25), and this year they face similar challenges. Games against Iowa after traveling to Michigan and against Washington after traveling to Oregon could be potential let-down spots.
With a schedule that doesn't offer many easy wins, Wisconsin will need to avoid these let-downs and capture toss-up matchups like the one against Washington. Consistency will be key for the Badgers if they want to have a successful season and avoid the pitfalls that plagued them in 2024.
7-5 Would Be a Great Result
It's time to recalibrate our expectations for Wisconsin in 2025. This doesn't mean we should expect less from Luke Fickell and his team, but rather it's an acknowledgement that facing a tough schedule like the 2025 one will require a different level of performance.
Games against Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, and Minnesota will be crucial for the Badgers. A 7-5 record against this schedule would be a great achievement, considering the competition. Fans should enter the season looking for clear improvement and a new team-wide identity. Any expectation of a 9-3 record against this slate would be detached from the reality of the situation.
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