Wisconsin Badgers Football

The Wisconsin Badgers football team, representing the University of Wisconsin–Madison, is a resonated name in American college football. Competing in the Big Ten Conference, they've been part of the NCAA Football Bowl Subdivision since its inception.

Their home ground, Camp Randall Stadium, stands as one of the oldest in college football history. With a rich tradition dating back to 1896, the Badgers have achieved over 700 victories, showcasing their success on the football field. Join us as we explore the journey from the root level.

Wisconsin Badgers Football Introduction

The Wisconsin Badgers football team represents the University of Wisconsin–Madison. The team competes in the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) of the NCAA. They are part of the Big Ten Conference's West Division. The team was established in 1896 and has been part of the Big Ten since its formation. The Badgers play their home games at Camp Randall Stadium, which is one of the oldest stadiums in college football. The team's mascot is Bucky Badger. The current head coach is Luke Fickell.

The Wisconsin Badgers are known for their strong football tradition. They have won over 700 games, making them one of the most successful programs in college football. The team has had two Heisman Trophy winners, Alan Ameche and Ron Dayne. Additionally, twelve former Badgers players have been inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame.

Wisconsin Badgers Football History

The Wisconsin Badgers football team started in 1889. In 1896, they were one of the seven founding members of the Big Ten Conference. The Badgers have played their home games at Camp Randall Stadium since 1917.

The Badgers have a long history of success. Wisconsin Badgers have won over 700 games and played in more than 1,100 games. Wisconsin Badgers have finished in the top 25 national polls 27 times. Since 1993, they have appeared in 27 bowl games in 29 seasons. The Badgers have also won several conference championships.

Wisconsin has strong rivalries with teams like Minnesota, Iowa, and Nebraska. The rivalry with Minnesota is one of the oldest in college football, known as the "Battle for Paul Bunyan's Axe." The Badgers have had many achievements over the years. Badgers have two Heisman Trophy winners, Alan Ameche and Ron Dayne. Wisconsin Badgers also have twelve players inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame.

Wisconsin Badgers Football Coach

The Wisconsin Badgers football team, representing the University of Wisconsin–Madison, has had a long line of head coaches since its inception. From Alvin Kletsch in 1889 to Luke Fickell, the current head coach, these leaders have steered the team through various eras.

Among them, Barry Alvarez stands out, having served three times as head coach, including two interim stints. Over the years, these coaches have guided the Badgers through the ups and downs of college football.

Head Coach: Luke Fickell

Luke Fickell took over as the 31st head coach of Wisconsin football on Nov. 27, 2022, bringing with him a successful tenure at the University of Cincinnati. Fickell navigated challenges in his first full season with the Badgers in 2023 and led the team to a winning season, including victories in key rivalry games against Nebraska and Minnesota. Despite facing injuries and early setbacks, the team secured their 22nd consecutive winning season and earned a bowl game appearance.

Wisconsin Badgers Football Stadium: Camp Randall Stadium

Camp Randall Stadium, situated in Madison, Wisconsin, on the grounds of the University of Wisconsin, is home to the Wisconsin Badgers football team. Initially established in 1895 in a basic form, it transformed into a fully functional stadium by 1917. As the oldest stadium in the Big Ten Conference, it holds a significant place in college football history.

With a capacity of 75,822 seats since 2022, Camp Randall Stadium stands as the fifth largest stadium in the Big Ten. The field's layout follows a traditional north–south alignment, positioned at approximately 880 feet (270 meters) above sea level. Operated and owned by the University of Wisconsin–Madison, the stadium has seen various surface types over the years, including natural grass from 1917 to 1967, AstroTurf from 1968 to 2002, and currently, FieldTurf since 2003.

Wisconsin Badgers Football Rivals

The Wisconsin Badgers football team boasts several intense rivalries, each steeped in tradition and marked by fierce competition.

Minnesota – Paul Bunyan's Axe

The rivalry between the Wisconsin Badgers and the Minnesota Golden Gophers is the oldest and most played in Division I FBS football, dating back to 1907. This intense matchup holds significant prestige, with the annual game often serving as the final regular-season contest for both teams. Since 1948, the winner has been awarded Paul Bunyan's Axe, a symbol of lumberjack prowess. The axe, adorned with the scores of past games, is a cherished trophy displayed on the winning team's campus. Currently, Wisconsin holds a slight edge in the series with 63 victories to Minnesota's 62.

Iowa – Heartland Trophy

The rivalry between Wisconsin and Iowa has deep roots dating back to 1894. The Heartland Trophy, introduced in 2004, adds extra intensity to this matchup. Crafted by artist and former Iowa football player Frank Strub, the trophy features a bull mounted on a walnut base. Despite being placed in separate divisions for a time, the addition of Maryland and Rutgers in 2014 reignited the annual showdown between Iowa and Wisconsin. As of now, Wisconsin holds a narrow lead in the series with 49 wins compared to Iowa's 46.

Wisconsin Badgers Football Record and stats

Wisconsin Badgers football has won one national championship, recognized by a major NCAA selector in 1942. Although not officially claimed by the school, it's a significant achievement. The team has won 14 conference championships, eight solely and six jointly. Additionally, they have secured 5 division championships, showcasing consistent success within their conference and division.

National championships

Conference championships

Division championships

Wisconsin Badgers Football Roster

The 2024 Wisconsin Badgers Football Roster features players in various positions:

• Cornerbacks: Ricardo Hallman, RJ Delancy III, Nyzier Fourqurean, Michael Mack, Max Lofy, Amare Snowden, Jonas Duclona, Jace Arnold

• Defensive Linemen: Ben Barten, Will McDonald, Nolan Vils, James Thompson Jr., Jamel Howard, Ernest Willor Jr., Elijah Hills, Cade McDonald

• Inside Linebackers: Jake Chaney, Tyler Jansey, Garrison Solliday

• Kickers: Nate Van Zelst, Nathanial Vakos, Gavin Lahm

• Offensive Linemen: Kevin Heywood, Joe Brunner, Jake Renfro, Manny Mullens, Joe Huber, Max Rader, James Durand, JP Benzschawel, Barrett Nelson, Riley Mahlman, Kerry Kodanko, John Clifford

• Outside Linebackers: John Pius, Leon Lowery, Darryl Peterson, Thomas Heiberger, Anelu Lafaele, Aaron Witt

• Punters: Gavin Meyers, Atticus Bertrams

• Quarterbacks: Tyler Van Dyke, Mabrey Mettauer, Cole LaCrue, Braedyn Locke

• Running Backs: Chez Mellusi, Tawee Walker, Nate White, Cade Yacamelli, Gideon Ituka, Jackson Acker, Grover Bortolotti, Zach Gloudeman

• Safeties: Austin Brown, Kamo'i Latu, Preston Zachman, Owen Arnett, Braedyn Moore, Hunter Wohler, Justin Taylor, Charlie Jarvis, Jackson Trudgeon

• Tight Ends: Riley Nowakowski, Tucker Ashcraft, JT Seagreaves, Angel Toombs, Michael Cerniglia Jr., Grant Stec, Jackson McGohan, Rob Booker II

• Wide Receivers: C.J. Williams, Quincy Burroughs, Will Pauling, Bryson Green, Trech Kekahuna, Tyrell Henry, Cam Fane, Kyan Berry-Johnson, Davion Thomas-Kumpula, Grady O'Neill, Haakon Anderson, Alex Moeller, Chris Brooks Jr., Vinny Anthony II

Wisconsin Badgers Football Schedule

The 2024 football season for the Wisconsin Badgers promises an array of thrilling matchups. Here’s the schedule of Wisconsin Badgers Football 2024:

• Sat, 8/31: vs WMU (Time TBD)

• Sat, 9/7: vs SDAK (Time TBD)

• Sat, 9/14: vs ALA (9:00 AM)

• Sat, 9/28: @ USC (Time TBD)

• Sat, 10/5: vs PUR (Time TBD)

• Sat, 10/12: @ RUTG (Time TBD)

• Sat, 10/19: @ NU (Time TBD)

• Sat, 10/26: vs PSU (Time TBD)

• Sat, 11/2: @ IOWA (Time TBD)

• Sat, 11/16: vs ORE (Time TBD)

• Sat, 11/23: @ NEB (Time TBD)

• Sat, 11/30: vs MINN (Time TBD)