The Wisconsin Badgers are quickly approaching their 2026 season opener against Notre Dame.
With all eyes on Sunday, September 6, this year's edition of the Shamrock Series gives the Badgers an immediate test against a National Championship contender.
It marks Wisconsin's first game at Lambeau Field since they upset LSU back in 2016.
Head coach Luke Fickell had a chance to speak to the media on Monday, August 31, and gave a few key updates prior to a primetime showdown against the Fighting Irish.
Will Emerson Mandell or Kevin Heywood play in Week 1?
Wisconsin Weekly Media Conference - Aug. 31, 2026 https://t.co/4XkQ0e3xJq
— Wisconsin Badgers (@UWBadgers) August 31, 2026
"We don't know," Fickell said in regard to the offensive lineman's status against Notre Dame. "There's still some time for us. I couldn't tell you exactly where we are to date right
now. That'll be closer to a game time decision. Both of them took some reps today."
No decision on QB2
Old Dominion transfer Colton Joseph is this team's starting quarterback heading into the year, but when it comes to a backup, there's still an ongoing battle between Deuce Adams and Ryan Hopkins.
"I don't know that we'll ever designate a whole lot of who is the No. 2," Fickell said.
Abu Sama is RB1
Again, to no surprise, an incoming transfer has been named a starting player on this depth chart. Abu Sama recorded 1,933 rushing yards in his first three seasons at Iowa State, but now, he's ready for a new challenge in the Big Ten.
"I can tell you this, Abu Sama is our 1A. From there, I think there’s a lot of things we’ll have to figure out as we continue to move forward," the fourth year head coach added.
Contact/Follow @TheBadgersWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Wisconsin Badgers news, notes and opinion. You can also follow Jordon Lawrenz on X @jordonlaw_pxp.
This article originally appeared on Badgers Wire: Biggest takeaways from Luke Fickell's Wisconsin vs. Notre Dame presser
