The Wisconsin Badgers football team is set to embark on an exciting new chapter in 2025, with a challenging schedule that will test their mettle. The Badgers will open their season with a non-conference matchup against the LSU Tigers in the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia, a rematch of their thrilling 2022 meeting. The game is sure to be a highly anticipated clash of two of college football’s most storied programs.
After their high-profile season opener, Wisconsin will return home to Camp Randall Stadium to face the Washington State Cougars. The Cougars, under the leadership of head coach Jake Dickert, are a rising force in the Pac-12 Conference. The Badgers will need to be at their best to secure a victory in this early-season test.
The Badgers’ Big Ten Conference schedule will be no less daunting, with road games against Ohio State, Penn State, and Michigan on the docket. Wisconsin will also host Iowa, Purdue, and Northwestern at Camp Randall Stadium. The Badgers will need to navigate a challenging conference slate to maintain their status as one of the top teams in the Big Ten West Division.
Season Outlook: Wisconsin Primed for Success in 2025
The Wisconsin Badgers are poised for another successful season in 2025. With a talented roster led by quarterback Graham Mertz and running back Braelon Allen, the Badgers are once again expected to compete for the Big Ten West Division title. Wisconsin’s schedule features a mix of tough opponents and more manageable games, providing the team with a chance to build momentum early in the season and finish strong.
Offensively, Mertz will be looking to build on his strong 2024 season, in which he threw for over 3,000 yards and 25 touchdowns. Allen, a bruising running back, will be a key part of the Badgers’ offense, providing a steady presence and the ability to break off big plays. The offensive line is anchored by Logan Brown, a preseason All-Big Ten selection, and should provide Mertz with ample time to throw and Allen with running lanes.
Defensively, Wisconsin is expected to be strong once again. The Badgers return a number of key players, including Nick Herbig, a standout linebacker who led the team in tackles in 2024. The secondary is also expected to be strong, led by cornerback Semar Melvin. Wisconsin’s defense should be able to create turnovers and force opposing offenses into mistakes, giving the Badgers a chance to win games in a variety of ways.
Overall, the Badgers are poised for another successful season in 2025. With a talented roster and a favorable schedule, Wisconsin has a chance to compete for the Big Ten West Division title and make a run in the College Football Playoff.
Schedule
| Date | Opponent | Location |
|---|---|---|
| August 30 | Eastern Michigan | Camp Randall Stadium |
| September 6 | at Utah State | Maverik Stadium |
| September 13 | North Dakota | Camp Randall Stadium |
| September 20 | @ Purdue | Ross-Ade Stadium |
| September 27 | Illinois | Camp Randall Stadium |
| October 4 | @ Iowa | Kinnick Stadium |
| October 11 | Ohio State | Camp Randall Stadium |
| October 18 | @ Minnesota | Huntington Bank Stadium |
| October 25 | Rutgers | Camp Randall Stadium |
| November 1 | @ Nebraska | Memorial Stadium |
| November 8 | Penn State | Camp Randall Stadium |
| November 15 | at Northwestern | Ryan Field |
Quarterback Competition: Mertz, Stokes Battle for Starting Role
The battle for Wisconsin’s starting quarterback spot in 2025 is shaping up to be a tight one, with Graham Mertz and Nick Stokes both vying for the top role. Mertz has been the incumbent starter since 2021, but Stokes has shown promise in limited action, particularly in last season’s bowl game where he led the Badgers to a come-from-behind victory. Both quarterbacks have their strengths and weaknesses, and the coaching staff will have a tough decision to make.
Mertz: Experience and Leadership
Mertz brings a wealth of experience to the table, having started 33 games over the past three seasons. He has a strong arm and is a capable runner, but his decision-making and accuracy have been inconsistent at times. Mertz is also a vocal leader and respected by his teammates. He has a proven track record of success, but whether he can take the next step and become a top-flight quarterback remains to be seen.
Stokes: Upside and Potential
Stokes is a redshirt sophomore who has shown flashes of brilliance in his limited opportunities. He has a quick release, good athleticism, and a knack for making big plays. However, Stokes is still relatively inexperienced and can be prone to mistakes. His ceiling is potentially high, but he needs to prove that he can consistently perform at a high level.
| Quarterback | Experience | Strengths | Weaknesses |
|---|---|---|---|
| Graham Mertz | 33 starts | Arm strength, leadership | Decision-making, accuracy |
| Nick Stokes | Limited | Athleticism, playmaking ability | Inexperience, consistency |
Running Back Depth: Braelon Allen Leads a Talented Backfield
Wisconsin’s running back depth is in great shape for 2025. Braelon Allen leads the way, having rushed for over 1,200 yards and 20 touchdowns as a freshman in 2022. He is one of the most talented running backs in the country and will be the focal point of the Badgers’ offense.
Talented Supporting Cast
Allen is not the only talented running back on Wisconsin’s roster. Chez Mellusi, Isaac Guerendo, and Jackson Acker have all shown flashes of their potential. Mellusi was a 1,000-yard rusher in 2021, and Guerendo is a bruising runner with a knack for finding the end zone. Acker is a speedy and elusive back who can create big plays.
Wisconsin Running Back Depth Chart
| Name | Class | Yards | Touchdowns |
|---|---|---|---|
| Braelon Allen | So. | 1,268 | 20 |
| Chez Mellusi | Jr. | 1,011 | 12 |
| Isaac Guerendo | So. | 442 | 10 |
| Jackson Acker | Fr. | 298 | 4 |
With Allen leading the way and a talented supporting cast behind him, Wisconsin’s running game should be one of the best in the country in 2025.
Wide Receiver Expectations: WR1 Emerges in 2025
Wisconsin’s WR1 in 2025
The emergence of a clear WR1 will be crucial for Wisconsin’s offensive success in 2025. The Badgers’ wide receiver corps has been inconsistent in recent seasons, but several young players have shown promise and could step up to fill the void.
2025 Wisconsin Wide Receivers with the Potential to be WR1:
| Player | Year | Stats |
|---|---|---|
| Keon Johnson | RS Fr. | 37 rec., 511 yards, 7 TDs |
| Chris Brooks | RS Jr. | 25 rec., 398 yards, 4 TDs |
| Dean Engram | So. | 18 rec., 292 yards, 3 TDs |
| Skyler Bell | Fr. | N/A |
| Markus Allen | Fr. | N/A |
Evaluating the Candidates
Keon Johnson: Johnson emerged as one of the Badgers’ most reliable receivers in his freshman season, leading the team in receptions, yards, and touchdowns. He has a strong frame (6’2", 215 lbs), good route-running skills, and a knack for making difficult catches.
Chris Brooks: Brooks is a bigger target (6’6", 230 lbs) who is a strong blocker and can make tough catches in the middle of the field. He has shown flashes of potential, but needs to be more consistent with his route-running and ball security.
Dean Engram: Engram is a versatile player who can line up in the slot or outside. He is a shifty runner with good speed and elusiveness. Engram’s main weakness is his size (5’10", 180 lbs), which can make him vulnerable to some defensive backs.
Skyler Bell and Markus Allen
Skyler Bell and Markus Allen are two incoming recruits who could also push for the WR1 spot in 2025. Bell is a 4-star recruit from Michigan who is known for his speed and athleticism. Allen is a 3-star recruit from North Carolina who has exceptional hands and is a great route-runner.
Defensive Line Strength: Wisconsin’s Front Seven Set to Dominate
Wisconsin’s defensive line is poised to be one of the strongest in the nation in 2025. With a veteran group of returning starters and several talented newcomers, the Badgers’ front seven is expected to wreak havoc on opposing offenses.
Key Returners
The Badgers return a trio of All-Big Ten performers in Kayden Lyles, Nick Herbig, and Keeanu Benton. Lyles, a senior, was a second-team All-American in 2022, while Herbig and Benton were both third-team All-Big Ten selections. These three stars form the foundation of Wisconsin’s defensive line.
Newcomers to Watch
In addition to its returning stars, Wisconsin has added several promising newcomers to its defensive line. Five-star recruit Jaren Kanak is expected to make an immediate impact as a pass rusher, while four-star prospect Cade Yacamelli is a versatile player who can play both defensive tackle and end.
Scheme and Depth
Wisconsin’s defensive line will play in a 3-4 scheme under new defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard. This scheme requires the defensive line to be disruptive and create pressure on the quarterback. The Badgers have plenty of depth along the defensive line, with eight players who have started multiple games.
Key Games
Wisconsin’s defensive line will be tested early in the season, as the Badgers open with a home game against Ohio State. The Buckeyes have one of the most explosive offenses in the country, so the Badgers’ defensive line will need to be at its best. Other key games for Wisconsin’s defensive line include matchups against Michigan, Iowa, and Minnesota.
The 2025 Wisconsin Badgers defensive line is poised to be one of the most dominant units in recent memory. With a veteran group of returning starters and several talented newcomers, the Badgers’ front seven should be a force to be reckoned with.
| Player | Position | Year | Height | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kayden Lyles | Defensive End | Senior | 6’5″ | 280 lbs |
| Nick Herbig | Linebacker | Junior | 6’2″ | 235 lbs |
| Keeanu Benton | Defensive Tackle | Senior | 6’4″ | 315 lbs |
| Jaren Kanak | Defensive End | Freshman | 6’6″ | 250 lbs |
| Cade Yacamelli | Defensive Tackle/End | Freshman | 6’3″ | 275 lbs |
Linebacker Improvements: New Additions Bolster Second Level
The Wisconsin Badgers enter the 2025 season with renewed optimism in the linebacker unit. After a unit last year that failed to generate pressure and struggled in pass coverage, the Badgers have added several highly regarded recruits and transfers to bolster the second level of their defense.
Transfer Portal Additions
One of the most significant additions to the linebacker group is Ben Perry, a transfer from UCLA. Perry, a former four-star recruit, was one of the top linebackers in the Pac-12 last season, recording 103 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, and 3 sacks. He brings experience and playmaking ability to the Wisconsin defense.
Another transfer addition is Enrique Watson, a former three-star recruit from Rutgers. Watson is a physical presence at 6’3″ and 240 pounds. He recorded 62 tackles, 4.5 tackles for loss, and 1 interception in his final season with the Scarlet Knights.
Incoming Recruits
The Badgers also landed a talented class of linebacker recruits in the 2025 cycle. The class is highlighted by four-star recruit Jayden McGowan, who is ranked among the top 20 linebackers in the nation. McGowan is an athletic and versatile player who can play both inside and outside linebacker.
| Name | Position | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Jayden McGowan | Outside Linebacker | 4-star |
| Jalen Ross | Inside Linebacker | 3-star |
| Tyler Martin | Outside Linebacker | 3-star |
With these additions, the Wisconsin Badgers linebacker corps has the potential to be a strength of the defense in 2025. The combination of experienced veterans and talented young players should provide the Badgers with a physical and athletic presence on the second level.
Secondary Resurgence: New Coaching Staff Sparks Defensive Backs
7. Impactful Transfers: Bolstering the Secondary
In addition to the coaching changes, Wisconsin has also brought in a pair of impactful transfers to bolster their secondary. Cornerback Titus Leo, a three-star recruit from Iowa Western Community College, possesses excellent size and athleticism. He has shown a knack for making plays on the ball and could be a valuable addition to the Badgers’ defense. Safety Owen Pappoe, a former four-star recruit who spent the last two seasons at Auburn, also joins the team. Pappoe is a physical presence in the backfield who has a nose for the football. These transfers bring valuable experience and talent to the secondary and will be expected to make an immediate impact.
| Name | Position | Previous School |
| Titus Leo | Cornerback | Iowa Western Community College |
| Owen Pappoe | Safety | Auburn |
Non-Conference Tests: Gauntlet of Opponents Awaits Badgers
Wisconsin’s 2025 non-conference schedule is loaded with some of the toughest opponents in the country. With games against Auburn, Notre Dame, and Alabama, the Badgers will have their hands full.
8. Alabama Crimson Tide (Sept. 20)
The Crimson Tide are one of the most dominant programs in college football, and they will be a major test for Wisconsin in Week 3. Alabama has won seven national championships in the past 15 years, and they are always in contention for the title. The Badgers will need to be at their best to compete with the Crimson Tide.
Wisconsin’s only previous meeting with Alabama came in the 2015 College Football Playoff semifinals, a 27-10 loss in the Cotton Bowl. The Badgers held their own for a half, trailing just 13-3 at the break, but Alabama pulled away in the second half.
The Crimson Tide will be a big challenge for Wisconsin, but it’s also a great opportunity for the Badgers to show what they can do against one of the best teams in the country.
| Team | Location | Date |
|---|---|---|
| Auburn Tigers | Camp Randall Stadium, Madison, Wis. | Aug. 30 |
| Notre Dame Fighting Irish | Notre Dame Stadium, Notre Dame, Ind. | Sept. 6 |
| Alabama Crimson Tide | Bryant-Denny Stadium, Tuscaloosa, Ala. | Sept. 20 |
Big Ten Conference Schedule: Crucial Games for Division Title Hopes
#9: Michigan (November 15th, The Big House)
Clashing with Michigan in Ann Arbor is always a daunting task. The Wolverines have won 14 of the last 17 meetings and hold a 56-34-6 all-time record against Wisconsin. With both teams vying for the Big Ten East title, this game could decide who represents the division at the Big Ten Championship Game. Michigan’s explosive offense, anchored by quarterback J.J. McCarthy and receiver Cornelius Johnson, will challenge Wisconsin’s stout defense led by linebackers Nick Herbig and Jordan Turner. The Badgers will need to control the tempo on the ground with Braelon Allen and Chez Mellusi while creating turnovers to neutralize Michigan’s potent attack.
| Time | TV |
| 2:30 PM CT | FOX |
Wisconsin must focus on protecting quarterback Myles Burkett from Michigan’s relentless pass rush led by Mike Morris and Braiden McGregor. With both teams boasting talented rosters and the conference title implications, this rivalry game is destined to be a classic.
Regular Season Finale: Home Game against Rival Minnesota
The Badgers will wrap up their regular season at home against their bitter rival, the Minnesota Golden Gophers. This game is always a highlight of the season, and it will be especially important in 2025 as both teams will be looking to finish the season strong and secure a bowl bid.
The Gophers have been a thorn in Wisconsin’s side in recent years, winning three of the last five meetings. However, the Badgers will be looking to reclaim the Axe in 2025 and send their seniors out on a high note.
The game is scheduled to be played on November 29, 2025 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin. Kickoff is set for 11:00 AM CT and the game will be televised on FOX.
| TV | Radio | Tickets |
|---|---|---|
| FOX | Badger Radio Network | Available Now |
The Anticipated 2025 Wisconsin Football Schedule
The Wisconsin Badgers, renowned for their formidable football program, are set to embark on an exciting journey in the 2025 season. Their schedule promises an array of captivating matchups and thrilling challenges, keeping the Badger faithful on the edge of their seats.
The Badgers will kick off their campaign with a home game against the Kent State Golden Flashes. This non-conference opener will provide a valuable opportunity to establish momentum and showcase their offensive and defensive prowess.
The following week, Wisconsin will face their first Big Ten opponent, the Minnesota Golden Gophers, in a highly anticipated rivalry game. The teams will clash at Camp Randall Stadium, where the atmosphere is sure to be electric.
Subsequent non-conference matchups against the Illinois Fighting Illini and Southern Utah Thunderbirds will offer chances for the Badgers to build their record and hone their skills.
In October, Wisconsin will face a demanding stretch of games against their Big Ten rivals. They travel to West Lafayette to face the Purdue Boilermakers, host the Maryland Terrapins, and head to Lincoln to take on the Nebraska Cornhuskers.
After a bye week, the Badgers face a formidable opponent in the Iowa Hawkeyes. This in-state rivalry is always fiercely contested, and the outcome could have significant implications for both teams.
The regular season comes to a close with a home game against the Indiana Hoosiers. The Badgers will look to finish the season on a high note and secure a favorable bowl game berth.
People Also Ask About Wisconsin Football Schedule 2025
When is Wisconsin’s first home game in 2025?
Wisconsin’s first home game in 2025 is against Kent State on September 6.
Who do the Badgers play in their rivalry game in 2025?
Wisconsin plays their rivalry game against the Minnesota Golden Gophers on September 13, 2025.
What is the last game of the 2025 Wisconsin football season?
The last game of the 2025 Wisconsin football season is against the Indiana Hoosiers on November 22.
