Wisconsin counting on refurbished roster to help Badgers rebound from two straight losing seasons

Wisconsin is banking on a revamped roster to help the Badgers recover from two consecutive losing seasons. The team's decision to retain head coach Luke Fickell, despite departing athletic director Chris McIntosh, was predicated on the belief that Fickell could succeed with greater financial backing. In an effort to bolster the roster, Wisconsin recruited 34 transfers, 27 of whom previously played in Bowl Subdivision programs.

The Badgers enjoyed a remarkable 22-game winning streak as Power Four leaders before the downturn. However, an improved lineup and a more manageable schedule are expected to facilitate the return of bowl eligibility this season. Wisconsin takes on No. 4 Notre Dame in their season opener, but the conference schedule does not include any of the three Big Ten teams that clinched the College Football Playoff last year (Indiana, Ohio State, and Oregon).

The addition of linebacker duo Mason Posa and Cooper Catalano has given Wisconsin a glimmer of hope. Despite limited starting opportunities in their freshman seasons, both players have demonstrated their potential, with Posa earning third-team all-Big Ten honors and Catalano contributing significantly in victories against Washington and Illinois.

Wisconsin's defense ranked last among all FBS programs last year, with the team making strides in upgrading its talent base in the offseason. While the offense will undoubtedly improve, achieving respectability remains a significant accomplishment. Incoming players include Missouri's Marvin Burks Jr., who started 26 straight games in 2024 and 49 in 2023, Ohio State transfer Colton Joseph, who led Old Dominion to a 9-3 record, Arizona State cornerback Javan Robinson, who made 26 consecutive starts at Iowa State, Iowa State running back Abu Sama III, who rushed for 1,933 yards in three seasons, and Ohio State offensive tackle PJ Wilkins, who primarily played guard at his previous schools.

Additionally, linebacker Christian Alliegro and offensive lineman Joe Brunner are expected to join the roster. Wisconsin will face Notre Dame at Lambeau Field on September 6, host No. 18 Penn State on September 26, travel to face No. 14 Southern California on October 24, and conclude the season with a game against Minnesota on November 27.