"Embarking on a change: Wisconsin Badgers readying for the 2025 season with a new tradition"
The Wisconsin Badgers are preparing for a challenging 2025 season, with moderate expectations of improvement. Under the guidance of head coach Luke Fickell in his third year, the team is undergoing significant changes in mentality and strategy.
Expectations for the 2025 season
Wisconsin is projected to be better than in 2024, with around 5.2 wins on average (3.3 in the Big Ten), placing them around 37th nationally in SP+ rankings. The optimism hinges on improved quarterback play from transfer Billy Edwards Jr., a strong offensive line, and healthy play.
Coaching and Offensive Changes
The departure of Phil Longo left the team struggling with an ineffective offense. Fickell replaced him with Jeff Grimes, who brings a wide zone scheme aimed at establishing a more reliable, low-tempo run game. The backfield features exciting young talent like redshirt freshman Dilin Jones and sophomore Darrion Dupree. Offensive weapons include receivers Vinny Anthony II and transfers Jayden Ballard and Dekel Crowdus, who add deep-threat abilities.
The Tough Schedule Ahead
The Badgers face a "gauntlet" schedule in the new Big Ten alignment, leaving the old West division concept behind. The season includes games against Alabama, Ohio State, Michigan, Oregon, and Indiana, reflecting the strength of the conference overall.
A Refreshed Mentality
Coach Fickell emphasizes learning from last year's 5-win season and developing depth, particularly on the offensive line and running back positions. The focus is on managing the unknowns of new starting players while building resilience and cohesion.
The Fall Camp Experience
Vinny Anthony II likened the fall camp to a football party, as the team gathers at UW-Platteville for the next two weeks. The team is not shying away from their challenging schedule, with senior linebacker Aaron Witt and others having a big chip on their shoulders due to last season's performance.
Looking Forward to the 2025 Season
Despite the hard work during fall camp, there's still a lot to look forward to for the Badgers. Quarterback Billy Edwards Jr. expressed excitement for the upcoming season and the tough competition. Anthony, a returning wide receiver and senior, heads into the season with the Badgers, having been through thick and thin with the program. He embraces his leadership role, believing the team will surprise people with how good they are.
References:
- Wisconsin Badgers 2025 Football Schedule
- Wisconsin Badgers 2025 Football Preview
- Wisconsin Badgers Football: Luke Fickell Embraces Challenging Schedule
- Wisconsin Badgers Football: Luke Fickell on Building Depth and Resilience
The Wisconsin Badgers are eager to showcase their improvements in the 2025 season, with hopes of excelling in sports, specifically football, and American-football, as they face a tough schedule across NCAA Football. The team, underhead coach Luke Fickell in his third year, is reinforcing their offense with the introduction of Jeff Grimes, who brings a new wide zone scheme, promising a more reliable run game.
