What's Happening?
CBS Sports has released its rankings for all 138 FBS teams, placing the Wisconsin Badgers at No. 61 overall, which ranks them as the 15th team in the Big Ten. This ranking positions Wisconsin ahead of only Rutgers, Michigan State, and Purdue within the conference.
The Badgers have undergone significant changes, bringing in over 30 players from the transfer portal, yet skepticism remains about their potential improvement. Last season, Wisconsin finished tied for 14th in the Big Ten standings with a 2-7 conference record. Despite the low ranking, there is optimism among some that the Badgers could perform better in 2026, with sportsbooks predicting a seven-win season.
Why It's Important?
The ranking of Wisconsin as a bottom-tier team in the Big Ten highlights the challenges the program faces in regaining its competitive edge. The skepticism from CBS Sports suggests that despite the roster overhaul, the team may still struggle to compete against stronger conference opponents. This ranking could impact the perception of the program among recruits and fans, potentially affecting future recruitment and support. Additionally, the ranking underscores the competitive nature of the Big Ten, where traditional powerhouses like Ohio State and Michigan continue to dominate, making it difficult for teams like Wisconsin to break through.
