E48 S1 BH Alabama Wisconsin Preview and why Bama will win and take another step to make the playoffs

E48 BH Alabama Wisconsin Preview and why Bama will win and take another step to make the playoffsE48 BH Alabama Wisconsin Preview and why Bama will win and take another step to make the playoffs Wisconsin Badgers 2025 football season preview The Wisconsin Badgers enter the 2025 season in Luke Fickell's third year as head coach, seeking to rebound from a disappointing 5-7 record in 2024. The team has undergone significant changes, particularly on the offensive side, with new offensive coordinator Jeff Grimes implementing a more run-based scheme, deviating from the previous "air raid" style. Pundits project a challenging season for Wisconsin, with some sources forecasting a 5-7 record and noting the Badgers face the toughest schedule in FBS college football this season. • New Offensive Scheme: The Badgers are shifting back to a more run-heavy offense under new coordinator Jeff Grimes. The success of this transition, along with the performance of Maryland transfer quarterback Billy Edwards Jr., will be crucial. • Defensive Improvements: The defense, which struggled against the run in 2024, is looking to improve with key returners like cornerback Ricardo Hallman and linebacker Christian Alliegro, along with significant additions through the transfer portal. Offensive standouts • Danny O'Neil (Quarterback): In his first start, O'Neil delivered a record-breaking performance, throwing for 283 yards and three touchdowns while completing 23 of 27 passes. His 283 passing yards are the most by a Badgers quarterback in their first start. • Riley Mahlman (Right Tackle): As a seasoned veteran and one of the highest-rated tackles nationally, Mahlman is a key component of the offensive line, especially with the shift to a more aggressive, run-heavy scheme. • Eugene Hilton – true freshman, son of TY Hilton Defensive standouts • Brandon Lane (Defensive Line): Lane has contributed to the Badgers' improved pass rush, recording 1.5 sacks through the first two games. • Tackett Curtis (Linebacker): After dealing with injuries, Curtis is showing improved mobility and contributed one sack in Week 2. • Sebastian Cheeks (Outside Linebacker): Cheeks has displayed potential as an explosive edge rusher and also recorded one sack in Week 2. • Ricardo Hallman (Cornerback): Although stats are limited for 2025, Hallman is a crucial player in the secondary, known for his lockdown coverage skills. He had seven interceptions in 2023. • Mason Reiger (Outside Linebacker): Reiger has been a disruptive force, splitting a sack in Week 1 and adding to the improved pass rush. • Darryl Peterson (Outside Linebacker): Peterson also secured a sack in Week 1, showing his ability to contribute to the pass rush from the edge. • Tyreese Fearbry (Defensive End): Fearbry recorded a sack in Week 2