For the first time this season, the writers of Badgers Wire have come together to offer their predictions on the Wisconsin Badgers' Week 1 matchup against Notre Dame.
This is a Fighting Irish team that comes into the year ranked No. 5 in the US LBM Coaches Poll, and Badgers fans have every right to be scared about a potential blowout.
That said, our writers remain a bit optimistic, though they remain realistic, as Notre Dame clocked in at No. 4 in the AP Preseason Poll for a reason.
Just hours before kickoff, here are our four staff predictions.
Jordon Lawrenz
It's impossible not to be excited about this game, though there's one result that could wipe out that excitement in minutes. Old Dominion transfer Colton Joseph can set the tone early, and as long as he uses
his legs and creates some openings, the Badgers should be in good shape. In no way do I expect Wisconsin to win this game, but they should at least compete and make things interesting for the first 15 minutes.
Notre Dame 31, Wisconsin 13
Ryan Harings
I think the Badgers keep it close for about half the game. Wisconsin's defense and running game will show up but Notre Dame is just too deep and too talented. I think Notre Dame probably pulls away in the second half. They'll go on a 14-point run, Colton Joseph probably throws an interception during that span and Notre Dame just has a better roster.
Notre Dame 31, Wisconsin 17
Connor Mardian
Wisconsin will keep it close but ultimately a fourth quarter turnover will flip momentum away from the Badgers. However, there will be enough promise to make fans believe in the season.
Notre Dame 35, Wisconsin 21
Jayd Serdy
I expect Wisconsin to come out with plenty of energy in front of what should be a rambunctious crowd at Lambeau Field. I think the Badgers' defense will keep the game competitive early. Notre Dame, however, has too much talent and too much experience across the roster for me to pick Wisconsin to pull off the upset. I expect the Badgers to hang around for a while before Notre Dame pulls away in the second half.
Notre Dame 31, Wisconsin 17
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This article originally appeared on Badgers Wire: Badgers Wire staff predicts Wisconsin's Week 1 matchup vs. Notre Dame
