Year 3 of the Luke Fickell era in Madison arrives with a daunting reality: the Wisconsin Badgers have one of the toughest schedules in the country.
With trips to Alabama, Oregon, and Michigan, plus home dates against Ohio State and Illinois, the Badgers won’t be judged solely on wins and losses. Instead, success in 2025 will be measured by growth, competitiveness, and whether Wisconsin proves it belongs on the same field as the sport’s elite.
For decades, the Badgers thrived on a formula of power running,
dominant lines, and suffocating defense. Fickell’s mission has been to modernize that blueprint, blending Wisconsin’s traditional toughness with a more dynamic offense. By Year Three, the expectation is progress. That doesn’t necessarily mean a College Football Playoff run—few would expect that with this schedule—but it does mean avoiding the inconsistency that marred his first two seasons.
So what defines success in a gauntlet like this?
First, Wisconsin has to compete against the bluebloods. Getting blown out by Alabama or Michigan would reinforce the narrative that the Badgers are a step below college football’s top tier. But if they can hang in those games, maybe even steal one, it signals real growth. Even an 8-4 record with a win over a national power would resonate far louder than an inflated 11–1 slate against weaker opponents.
Second, Wisconsin must hold serve in the rivalry games. Beating Minnesota and Iowa, even in a year with marquee opponents, is non-negotiable. The Badgers’ fan base measures seasons in Axe trophies and Heartland wins just as much as in rankings. Protecting those traditions keeps the program grounded.
Finally, development matters. Wisconsin needs to show its quarterback play is stabilizing, that the offensive line is once again a strength, and that young defensive talent can carry the program forward. Producing NFL-caliber players and forging an identity that blends toughness with explosiveness will prove the program is on the right trajectory.
In short, success for Wisconsin in 2025 doesn’t mean perfection. With one of the hardest schedules in the nation, the Badgers don’t need to win them all—but they do need to prove they can compete with anyone, anywhere.
If Fickell’s squad can notch a signature win, qualify for a bowl game, and protect its rivalries, Year 3 will be remembered as a season that laid the foundation for Wisconsin’s rise into the modern college football landscape.
