Luke Fickell returns for his fourth season after Wisconsin finished 4-8 overall and 2-7 in Big Ten play in 2025. The biggest offensive story entering the season was the turnover at quarterback and receiver, as Wisconsin needed to replace its starting quarterback and top three receivers, while Jeff Grimes returned as offensive coordinator for his second season. Old Dominion transfer Colton Joseph takes over as the starting quarterback. Iowa State transfer Abu Sama III takes over as the starting running back after averaging 61 rushing yards per game last season, while Darrion Dupree returns after averaging 36 rushing yards per game. Update (Oct. 14): Sama has been dealing with a shoulder injury, creating uncertainty about his availability. Dupree has taken on a larger role in the backfield during his absence. Tyrell Henry returns, and Oklahoma State transfer Shamar Rigby joins the receiving corps after making 25 catches in 2025. Update (Oct. 14): Eugene Hilton Jr. and Chris Brooks Jr. have emerged as additional receiving options alongside Henry and Rigby. Jaylon Domingeaux, sidelined since fall camp, is also nearing a potential return. The offensive line returns full-time starter Emerson Mandell, while Colin Cubberly adds significant experience after making seven starts last season. Oklahoma State transfer Austin Kawecki joins the group after making 11 starts in 2025. Update (Oct. 14): Kawecki has been sidelined by injury, and Ryan Cory has taken on a larger role on the offensive line. Kevin Heywood has been working at left tackle, while Mandell has been playing right tackle.

Mike Tressel returns for his fourth season as Wisconsin’s defensive coordinator, bringing back its top two tacklers in linebackers Mason Posa and Cooper Catalano. Wisconsin also adds several experienced transfers to a unit with numerous new starters, including Arkansas transfer linebacker Justus Boone, West Virginia transfer defensive lineman Hammond Russell, and Arizona State transfer Javan Robinson and Missouri transfer Marvin Burks Jr. in the secondary. Matt Jung returns after making eight starts. Update (Oct. 14): Wisconsin’s defense has emerged as the team’s biggest strength, allowing just 4.0 yards per play through five games. The Badgers held Penn State to 20 points and Michigan State to just three in their first two Big Ten contests. Posa and Catalano remain key contributors at linebacker, while Robinson and Jung provide experience in the secondary.

Bob Ligashesky takes over as special teams coordinator, with Gavin Lahm handling placekicking and Sean West punting. Tyrell Henry handles punt returns, while Darrion Dupree is the primary kickoff returner.

Wisconsin entered 2026 with major turnover at quarterback and receiver but added proven Power Conference production at running back and on the offensive line. Defensively, Wisconsin returned its top two tacklers while adding several experienced transfers to a unit with many new starters. Update (Oct. 14): Wisconsin is 4-1 overall and 2-0 in Big Ten play following a 31-3 victory over Michigan State on October 3. The Badgers have won four consecutive games, including a 24-20 road victory over Penn State. Wisconsin’s improved defense has helped offset offensive injuries and personnel changes as the Badgers prepare to visit UCLA on October 17.