The 2024 season for the Wisconsin Badgers fell short of fans’ expectations, ending with a 5-7 record and marking their first year without bowl eligibility in 22 seasons. After winning their first two non-conference games, they faced tough competition against No. 4 Alabama and No. 13 USC, resulting in a 2-2 record. However, they rebounded in the Big Ten with three consecutive victories, putting them within reach of bowl eligibility, needing just one more win.
That’s when things took a turn for the worse. The Badgers suffered five consecutive losses, ending their bowl streak. Consequently, the team missed out on the college football postseason, though some of their Big Ten rivals and future opponents did qualify. Let’s examine how the Badgers’ 2025 opponents fared in the postseason.
The Big Ten Conference remains one of the most respected in college football and had a strong showing in 2024, with teams participating in ten bowl games (not including first-round playoff games). The conference also secured a spot in the 12-team playoff, with a No. 1 seed representing them.
While Wisconsin won’t face every Big Ten team, and several opponents also failed to make the postseason, their upcoming schedule still presents challenges, featuring eight opponents from the 2024 postseason, including Rose Bowl participants, the Oregon Ducks, and the Ohio State Buckeyes. The Badgers will also take on Indiana, who was in the college football playoff but lost in the first round. Overall, their opponents recorded a postseason record of 4-5.
Looking ahead, it’s early in the offseason and many changes in players, coaching staff, and overall dynamics are likely before the season kicks off. The year will start against Miami, OH, who recently enjoyed a significant bowl victory over Colorado State, posing a substantial challenge for Wisconsin. They will also face formidable mid-season opponents like Michigan, Iowa, Ohio State, and Oregon, ending the season against additional postseason teams Indiana, Illinois, and Minnesota, who together have a combined bowl record of 2-1.
To initiate a new bowl streak, the Badgers must begin the season strong and secure early wins, including a few against top-tier teams, to reach the necessary six victories. However, they are making progress this offseason through the transfer portal, high school recruiting, and coaching changes that should benefit them come fall.
