Wisconsin's Week 1 opponent dominates USA TODAY's top 100 rankings

The Wisconsin Badgers face a formidable opponent in their 2026 season opener against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, as highlighted by USA TODAY's preseason player rankings. Five players from the Fighting Irish made USA TODAY's Top 100 College Football Players list for 2026, with three of them ranking within the top 30. Cornerback Leonard Moore topped the charts at No. 4, having earned unanimous All-American honors in 2025.

He is expected to be a significant challenge for Wisconsin's new offense, spearheaded by quarterback Colton Joseph, who was recently named to the Manning Award Watch List. Freshman quarterback CJ Carr ranked No. 18 with 2,471 passing yards, 24 touchdowns, and only six interceptions during his redshirt freshman season. Three Notre Dame defensive players also found themselves on the list: Drayk Bowen at No. 77, Tae Johnson at No. 60, and Kyngstonn Viliamu-Asa at No. 28.

Notre Dame secured the top spot in USA TODAY's preseason team re-ranking, underscoring the challenge it poses for Wisconsin. The Badgers and Fighting Irish will clash on September 6 at Lambeau Field, providing an early opportunity for Wisconsin to make a statement against one of the nation's most talented teams.