Talkin’ Badgers: A Wisconsin Badgers Football and Basketball Podcast

Despite its deflating loss at the hands of a middling Ohio State Buckeyes squad, this Wisconsin basketball team is still the same group that earned top-10 road wins in Ann Arbor over the Michigan Wolverines and in Champaign over the Illinois Fighting Illini (not to mention a dominating victory over Tom Izzo and the Michigan State Spartans).This UW squad that fell 86-69 in Columbus is the same one that erased a massive deficit against the Minnesota Golden Gophers, because it is the same group that put itself in the precarious position of needing a historic comeback to sweep the Gophers.Wisconsin is flawed, but its flaws are what make this basketball team so exciting. It is the traits that seemingly give the Badgers a chance to beat any team on a given night that also make them so vulnerable.After back-to-back wins over Illinois and Michigan State, the ceiling of head coach Greg Gard’s latest squad was realized. It did not, however, eliminate the risks of employing a team built around two ball-dominant guards and effective long-range shooting. When either of those two factors, let alone both at once, is lost, this is a basketball team that quickly comes crashing down to Earth.But hey, that’s college basketball.*Watch on YouTube*Join Bucky's Burrow!*Follow Dillon Graff*Follow Kedrick on Bluesky*Follow the podcast on Twitter/XWe appreciate you taking the time to read our work at BadgerNotes.com. Your support means the world to us and has helped us become the leading source for independent Wisconsin Badgers coverage. Get full access to Badgernotes at www.badgernotes.com/subscribe

Facing a 20-point deficit in the first half, all seemed lost for Wisconsin basketball on Wednesday night. By intermission, that lead slimmed narrowly to 18 points, but that was just enough for the Wisconsin Badgers to mount a comeback tied for the largest in program history.Led by John Blackwell’s game-high 23 points, UW, for the second time in eight days, escaped with a dramatic victory over the Minnesota Golden Gophers. By capturing the 67-63 win, Wisconsin tied a program record for the largest deficit overcome in a second half and set a new record with its longest-ever winning streak over its border battle rival.Unpack all the history of the win, a handful of key plays, and what made this Wisconsin men’s basketball win different than its other recent come-from-behind victories. This time, Wisconsin won thanks, in part, to a hard-nosed defensive effort, and not solely on the back of its prolific offense; that signals a continued upward trajectory for these Badgers.*Watch on YouTube*Join Bucky's Burrow!*Follow Dillon Graff*Follow Kedrick on Bluesky*Follow the podcast on Twitter/XWe appreciate you taking the time to read our work at BadgerNotes.com. Your support means the world to us and has helped us become the leading source for independent Wisconsin Badgers coverage. Get full access to Badgernotes at www.badgernotes.com/subscribe

With recent injuries to NBA Draft prospects John Blackwell and Nolan Winter, Wisconsin basketball could be shorthanded when facing the in-state Milwaukee Panthers. As Big Ten play looms, the Wisconsin Badgers cannot afford to slip up, no matter their injury situation.If Blackwell and Winter are unable to play, UW will quickly have to find the secondary scoring options it has been lacking. Against the Central Michigan Chippewas, transfers Braeden Carrington and Austin Rapp combined for 27 points, showcasing some promise of becoming reliable options alongside Blackwell, Winter, and Nick Boyd. A fast-paced Milwaukee team could test a questionable Badgers defense. Liam Hanley of the Shepherd Express joins Talkin’ Badgers host Kedrick Stumbris to offer the Panthers’ perspective on the non-conference matchup. This year’s version of head coach Bart Lundy’s Milwaukee Panthers is younger than his other recent teams, but it remains an offense-first program. A welcome change from years past, however, is Milwaukee’s surprising knack for taking care of the basketball.Between injuries, high-octane offense, and the Panthers playing three games in four days, this winter break matchup may wind up more closely-contested than Badgers fans would prefer. *Watch on YouTube*Follow Liam Hanley on X*Read Liam's work for Shepherd Express*Oldest Players in College Basketball*Listen to MKE Sports Express*Join Bucky's Burrow!*Follow Dillon Graff*Follow Kedrick on Bluesky or the website formerly known as Twitter*Follow the podcast on Twitter/XWe appreciate you taking the time to read our work at BadgerNotes.com. Your support means the world to us and has helped us become the leading source for independent Wisconsin Badgers coverage. Get full access to Badgernotes at www.badgernotes.com/subscribe

All wins on an NCAA Tournament resume are good wins. But a win, in a presumably hostile environment, against a top-20 team would be a great win on Wisconsin basketball‘s NCAA Tournament resume.The No. 24 Wisconsin Badgers are out west in Salt Lake City, Utah, to face the No. 9 BYU Cougars. Although the team that cut UW’s March Madness run short less than eight months ago is above Wisconsin in the human polls, some computers like the Badgers more than the Cougars on a neutral court.This game, notably not on BYU’s campus, however, will not be a neutral environment. In Wisconsin’s first test away from the Kohl Center this season, it faces a daunting crowd, a preseason All-American in the frontcourt, and another former five-star prospect running point.While the Badgers are fully healthy, the Cougars may not be. BYU is potentially down two of its starters, and that opens up a golden opportunity for UW to put a gold star on its resume before Thanksgiving. It is an opportunity most college basketball teams cannot afford to give up.Join today’s episode of Talkin’ Badgers to find out who’s in, who’s out, and why this November matchup could mean so much for Wisconsin come tournament time.*Watch on YouTube*Join Bucky's Burrow!*Follow Dillon Graff*Follow Brandon Cooper*Follow Ryan Eilers*Follow Kedrick on Bluesky or the website formerly known as Twitter*Follow the podcast on Twitter/XWe appreciate you taking the time to read our work at BadgerNotes.com. Your support means the world to us and has helped us become the leading source for independent Wisconsin Badgers coverage. Get full access to Badgernotes at www.badgernotes.com/subscribe

When the Wisconsin Badgers took to Barry Alvarez Field inside Camp Randall Stadium against the Washington Huskies, Luke Fickell had earned three votes of confidence from Director of Athletics Chris McIntosh. Still, he had yet to earn one from Badgers fans. Under Fickell’s stewardship, Wisconsin football had lost six consecutive games, had not beaten a Big Ten foe in over a year, and was 0-9 against ranked opponents.With 60 minutes of complementary football, Fickell just might have changed some hearts and minds.“The whole locker room has been behind Coach Fick since day one,” linebacker Cooper Catalano said in a post-game interview. The Germantown native logged a game-high 19 tackles–the most by any Badgers freshman since at least 1995.Catalano and Mason Posa, both true freshmen, led the way for a classic Badgers’ victory achieved first and foremost through its defense. The duo combined for four of Wisconsin’s nine tackles for loss. “They’re just doing a great job. They’re playing the game the way it’s supposed to be played,” Fickell boasted of the pairing thrust into the starting lineup due, in part, to injuries. “They have that energy. They bring that energy. They have a communication side to them, too. There’s some natural–I don’t want to say alpha but–there’s some natural things that you don’t teach.”As the late hours on Saturday turned to the early hours on Sunday, Talkin’ Badgers went live to break down the Catalano, Posa, backup punter/unexpected leading passer Sean West, and the fourth-string turned gutsy go-to-guy Carter Smith of it all.*Watch on YouTube*Join Bucky's Burrow!*Follow Dillon Graff*Follow Brandon Cooper*Follow Ryan Eilers*Follow Kedrick on Bluesky or the website formerly known as Twitter*Follow the podcast on Twitter/XWe appreciate you taking the time to read our work at BadgerNotes.com. Your support means the world to us and has helped us become the leading source for independent Wisconsin Badgers coverage. Get full access to Badgernotes at www.badgernotes.com/subscribe

A third of the college football regular season remains unplayed, but University of Wisconsin Director of Athletics Chris McIntosh has seen enough. McIntosh has decided that, even if Wisconsin football finishes 2-10, Luke Fickell will be the Wisconsin Badgers’ head coach in 2026.BadgerNotes columnist Seamus Rohrer, who declared on September 20th, 2025, that it was time “to move on from Luke Fickell,” disagrees with McIntosh’s decision, calling it “the definition of insanity.” Nevertheless, Rohrer is “not surprised” by the news.“I think the writing was on the wall. I think that we understood that the buyout, especially in the neighborhood of – what, $27 million? – was really steep.” Rohrer explained on Talkin’ Badgers, “I think we understood that McIntosh and his legacy are pretty directly tied to Fickell. I think we also understood that this is not a great year to get into the coaching market, the coaching carousel.”Listen to Rohrer and host Kedrick Stumbris analyze where Wisconsin goes from here, what the “intention” of increased investment can and cannot fix, and the sticky situation the Badgers now find themselves in to assess Fickell’s job performance before 2027.*Read Seamus's Film Room breakdown of the Oregon game*Read Seamus's column and interview with Mason Posa*Watch on YouTube*Join Bucky's Burrow!*Follow Dillon Graff*Follow Brandon Cooper*Follow Ryan Eilers*Follow Kedrick on Bluesky or the website formerly known as Twitter*Follow the podcast on Twitter/XWe appreciate you taking the time to read our work at BadgerNotes.com. Your support means the world to us and has helped us become the leading source for independent Wisconsin Badgers coverage. Get full access to Badgernotes at www.badgernotes.com/subscribe

A third of the college football regular season remains unplayed, but University of Wisconsin Director of Athletics Chris McIntosh has seen enough. McIntosh has decided that, even if Wisconsin football finishes 2-10, Luke Fickell will be the Wisconsin Badgers’ head coach in 2026.BadgerNotes columnist Seamus Rohrer, who declared on September 20th, 2025, that it was time “to move on from Luke Fickell,” disagrees with McIntosh’s decision, calling it “the definition of insanity.” Nevertheless, Rohrer is “not surprised” by the news.“I think the writing was on the wall. I think that we understood that the buyout, especially in the neighborhood of – what, $27 million? – was really steep.” Rohrer explained on Talkin’ Badgers, “I think we understood that McIntosh and his legacy are pretty directly tied to Fickell. I think we also understood that this is not a great year to get into the coaching market, the coaching carousel.”Listen to Rohrer and host Kedrick Stumbris analyze where Wisconsin goes from here, what the “intention” of increased investment can and cannot fix, and the sticky situation the Badgers now find themselves in to assess Fickell’s job performance before 2027.*Read Seamus's Film Room breakdown of the Oregon game*Read Seamus's column and interview with Mason Posa*Watch on YouTube*Join Bucky's Burrow!*Follow Dillon Graff*Follow Brandon Cooper*Follow Ryan Eilers*Follow Kedrick on Bluesky or the website formerly known as Twitter*Follow the podcast on Twitter/XWe appreciate you taking the time to read our work at BadgerNotes.com. Your support means the world to us and has helped us become the leading source for independent Wisconsin Badgers coverage. Get full access to Badgernotes at www.badgernotes.com/subscribe

Four games remain on the 2025 Wisconsin football schedule, but you would not know it from the headlines coming out of Madison. On a bombshell news day, University of Wisconsin Director of Athletics Chris McIntosh quashed any speculation on Luke Fickell’s job security, indicating that the Badgers head coach will return to the sideline of Barry Alvarez Field in 2026.“Coach Fickell has had my confidence throughout the season,” McIntosh said. “And we’ve had many, many conversations about how this season, and some of the challenges that we’ve faced have gone.”Those challenges–including a six-game losing streak, a 0-9 record against ranked opponents, and an empty trophy case–have not deterred McIntosh at any turn from expressing support for the head coach hired during McIntosh’s second year on the job. In the past 47 days, the former offensive lineman, now Director of Athletics, has issued three public statements supporting Fickell.As news broke, Talkin’ Badgers went live to discuss the news of Fickell’s return, the promise of additional resources to the Wisconsin football program, and the highly-touted “alignment” between the Office of the Chancellor down to the assistant coaches.*Watch on YouTube*Join Bucky's Burrow!*Follow Dillon Graff*Follow Brandon Cooper*Follow Ryan Eilers*Follow Kedrick on Bluesky or the website formerly known as Twitter*Follow the podcast on Twitter/XWe appreciate you taking the time to read our work at BadgerNotes.com. Your support means the world to us and has helped us become the leading source for independent Wisconsin Badgers coverage. Get full access to Badgernotes at www.badgernotes.com/subscribe

It has not yet translated to wins on the field, but Wisconsin football head coach Luke Fickell believes his team is moving in the right direction. “Internally, we are seeing a growth; it’s a little bit harder to see externally,” Fickell said two-thirds of the way through his third season at the helm of the Wisconsin Badgers. Week-to-week, month-to-month, season-to-season, that internal growth has not shown up. Now, staring down the barrel of a disastrous season in terms of wins and losses, statistical production, and to generate buy-in among a fanbase longing for something to cling to, Fickell is considering a change at quarterback. The Talkin’ Badgers After Dark crew reconvenes to break down Fickell’s odd comments, what it means for the culture in year three, and why Wisconsin has been incapable of getting opposing offenses to cough up the ball.Plus, stick around for a palette cleanser as the guys discuss why Wisconsin men’s basketball head coach Greg Gard is “excited about what this team isn’t.”*Watch on YouTube*Join Bucky's Burrow!*Follow Dillon Graff*Follow Brandon Cooper*Follow Ryan Eilers*Follow Kedrick on Bluesky or the website formerly known as Twitter*Follow the podcast on Twitter/XWe appreciate you taking the time to read our work at BadgerNotes.com. Your support means the world to us and has helped us become the leading source for independent Wisconsin Badgers coverage. Get full access to Badgernotes at www.badgernotes.com/subscribe

Bye weeks in college football are well known for creating more opportunities for up-and-coming talent. With six consecutive losses in the rearview mirror, Wisconsin football head coach Luke Fickell seems to be leaving no stone unturned. At his weekly press conference, Fickell said true freshman Carter Smith is ‘in the mix’ to start this week against the Washington Huskies.The potential switch comes amid seemingly endless questions about the availability of injured players, not just for UW’s quarterbacks but for impact players throughout the lineup. Eight of Wisconsin’s projected Week 1 starters did not play against the Oregon Ducks. No position group has seen more consistent inconsistency than the offensive line. In eight games, the Badgers have trotted out seven different starting fives on the OL.Talkin’ Badgers breaks down the latest injury updates shared by Fickell, including three season-ending injuries, and how it impacts the four regular-season games remaining. Plus, what has been the Wisconsin offense’s biggest Achilles heel: the quarterback or the bodies in front of him?*Watch on YouTube*Join Bucky's Burrow!*Follow Dillon Graff*Follow Brandon Cooper*Follow Ryan Eilers*Follow Kedrick on Bluesky or the website formerly known as Twitter*Follow the podcast on Twitter/XWe appreciate you taking the time to read our work at BadgerNotes.com. Your support means the world to us and has helped us become the leading source for independent Wisconsin Badgers coverage. Get full access to Badgernotes at www.badgernotes.com/subscribe

With the Wisconsin basketball preseason finally in the rearview mirror, the Wisconsin Badgers play a meaningful game tonight inside the Kohl Center. Before UW takes on the Campbell Fighting Camels, get caught up on what we know about the season to come with Talkin’ Badgers.With the expectation of being a team to finish in the top half of a loaded Big Ten, Badgers head coach Greg Gard will be challenged to find a way to connect more new faces than ever before. If he manages to do so, UW’s talented starting five and frisky bench rotation could make a deep run in March. Listen before tonight’s season-opening tip to learn the questions facing Wisconsin’s defense, the inexperienced frontcourt, and preseason All-Big Ten honoree John Blackwell in a Badgers basketball season unlike any before it.It will be a long four months until March, but if you blink, you might just miss something amazing inside the Kohl Center this Winter.*Wisconsin basketball roundtable preview*Every Badgers basketball player previewed in quotes*Watch on YouTube*Join Bucky's Burrow!*Follow Dillon Graff*Follow Brandon Cooper*Follow Ryan Eilers*Follow Kedrick on Bluesky or the website formerly known as Twitter*Follow the podcast on Twitter/XWe appreciate you taking the time to read our work at BadgerNotes.com. Your support means the world to us and has helped us become the leading source for independent Wisconsin Badgers coverage. Get full access to Badgernotes at www.badgernotes.com/subscribe

With the Wisconsin basketball preseason finally in the rearview mirror, the Wisconsin Badgers play a meaningful game tonight inside the Kohl Center. Before UW takes on the Campbell Fighting Camels, get caught up on what we know about the season to come with Talkin’ Badgers.With the expectation of being a team to finish in the top half of a loaded Big Ten, Badgers head coach Greg Gard will be challenged to find a way to connect more new faces than ever before. If he manages to do so, UW’s talented starting five and frisky bench rotation could make a deep run in March. Listen before tonight’s season-opening tip to learn the questions facing Wisconsin’s defense, the inexperienced frontcourt, and preseason All-Big Ten honoree John Blackwell in a Badgers basketball season unlike any before it.It will be a long four months until March, but if you blink, you might just miss something amazing inside the Kohl Center this Winter.*Wisconsin basketball roundtable preview*Every Badgers basketball player previewed in quotes*Watch on YouTube*Join Bucky's Burrow!*Follow Dillon Graff*Follow Brandon Cooper*Follow Ryan Eilers*Follow Kedrick on Bluesky or the website formerly known as Twitter*Follow the podcast on Twitter/XWe appreciate you taking the time to read our work at BadgerNotes.com. Your support means the world to us and has helped us become the leading source for independent Wisconsin Badgers coverage. Get full access to Badgernotes at www.badgernotes.com/subscribe

Fans of all kinds of Wisconsin sports saw their other favorite teams outscore the Wisconsin football team in October. In four games, including two in which the Wisconsin Badgers failed to score any points, the UW offense managed to put a meager 17 points on the board. Wisconsin scored a touchdown in the first quarter of its first game in October and did not find the end zone again until the final quarter of its final game of the month.A couple of young defensive standouts limited the damage in the final scoring margin, but questions surrounding Luke Fickell’s tenure remain. Clock management miscues against the Ohio State Buckeyes and the Oregon Ducks provided further data points for a larger trend: Fickell’s ultra-conservative approach yields disappointing results week after week.The Talkin’ Badgers After Dark crew reconvenes to break down the scoring output of various football, baseball, volleyball, and hockey teams. Plus, a brief recap of the Wisconsin basketball preseason.*Watch on YouTube*Join Bucky's Burrow!*Follow Dillon Graff*Follow Brandon Cooper*Follow Ryan Eilers*Follow Kedrick on Bluesky or the website formerly known as Twitter*Follow the podcast on Twitter/XWe appreciate you taking the time to read our work at BadgerNotes.com. Your support means the world to us and has helped us become the leading source for independent Wisconsin Badgers coverage. Get full access to Badgernotes at www.badgernotes.com/subscribe

NCAA rule changes have brought the college basketball preseason out from behind the closed doors of so-called “secret scrimmages.” On Friday, Wisconsin basketball gets its season unofficially underway in its first-ever public preseason exhibition against a high-major opponent. Greg Gard and the new-look Wisconsin Badgers are headed to Milwaukee to take on the Oklahoma Sooners. Both Gard and OU head coach Porter Moser have brand-new rosters loaded with transfer portal talent, ready to take the court inside Fiserv Forum. After UW’s annual Red-White scrimmage, what, if anything, was revealed about Wisconsin’s overhauled team? Can the Badgers continue their three-point shooting prowess? Will the defense hold up with all the new moving pieces?Plus, what Oklahoma Sooners players should Wisconsin Badgers fans know heading into the matchup? Moser has re-tooled his roster with a slew of high-major contributors from around the country, including the original NIL wunderkind, former Miami Hurricanes guard Nigel Pack.*Watch on YouTube*Join Bucky's Burrow!*Follow Dillon Graff*Follow Brandon Cooper*Follow Ryan Eilers*Follow Kedrick on Bluesky or the website formerly known as Twitter*Follow the podcast on Twitter/XWe appreciate you taking the time to read our work at BadgerNotes.com. Your support means the world to us and has helped us become the leading source for independent Wisconsin Badgers coverage. Get full access to Badgernotes at www.badgernotes.com/subscribe

Kedrick Stumbris is joined by hythloday1 of Addicted to Quack to break down the upcoming matchup between the Wisconsin Badgers and Oregon Ducks. Last season, Wisconsin football led Oregon by a touchdown through three quarters, but ultimately fell a field goal short of knocking off the then-undefeated and top-ranked Ducks. Now, the path to a potential upset appears much more daunting as UW sits at the bottom of the conference standings, winless in Big Ten play through four games, and 2-5 overall. Hythloday1, Managing Editor of the Oregon Ducks-focused site Addicted to Quack, helps make sense of the Oregon side of the primetime matchup. Hythloday provides insight into what makes the Ducks’ offense, led by quarterback Dante Moore, tick, the Xs and Os of head coach Dan Lanning’s defense, and the sometimes head-scratching strategic decisions made by the UO staff. You can also find Hythloday1 and special guest Kedrick on “It Never Rains on this Podcast” for a breakdown of where Wisconsin’s roster stands amidst a slew of injuries. *Follow Hythloday1 on Twitter/X or Bluesky*Watch on YouTube*Join Bucky's Burrow!*Follow Dillon Graff*Follow Brandon Cooper*Follow Ryan Eilers*Follow Kedrick on Bluesky or the website formerly known as Twitter*Follow the podcast on Twitter/XWe appreciate you taking the time to read our work at BadgerNotes.com. Your support means the world to us and has helped us become the leading source for independent Wisconsin Badgers coverage. Get full access to Badgernotes at www.badgernotes.com/subscribe

Dillon Graff and Kedrick Stumbris return from Big Ten basketball media days flush with quotes, handshakes, and interviews from college basketball players and coaches across the conference. Most importantly, they return with the biggest storylines for Wisconsin basketball entering the season. Wisconsin head coach Greg Gard led an offensive revolution in Madison last season, but the Badgers seem to think they are just getting started. Players and coaches are eager to say UW will push the tempo even faster, shoot more threes, and score more points this year. Despite how high-flying the Wisconsin Badgers were offensively last year, there is a compelling case to be made that Wisconsin will again be led by its offense rather than its defense. Gard has been excellent on the recruiting trail lately. Between standout portal additions such as John Tonje, Nick Boyd, and Austin Rapp, the two-time Big Ten Coach of the Year has established himself as a player-acquisition aficionado. Braeden Carrington might be a sleeper addition for the Badgers this year, the 2025 freshman class could be Gard’s best yet, and the UW head coach is “really focused a lot” on a 2027 class that features four top-100 players from the state of Wisconsin. *Watch on YouTube*Join Bucky's Burrow!*Follow Dillon Graff*Follow Brandon Cooper*Follow Ryan Eilers*Follow Kedrick on Bluesky or the website formerly known as Twitter*Follow the podcast on Twitter/XWe appreciate you taking the time to read our work at BadgerNotes.com. Your support means the world to us and has helped us become the leading source for independent Wisconsin Badgers coverage. Get full access to Badgernotes at www.badgernotes.com/subscribe

Despite losing by two touchdowns to the Michigan Wolverines, Wisconsin football undoubtedly put together its most complete on-field performance of the season. A mostly average offensive performance and an above-average defensive performance inspired some confidence in the Wisconsin Badgers. Head coach Luke Fickell, however, continues to make puzzling in-game decisions. Talkin’ Badgers breaks down the year-over-year trends for the third year UW head coach, who appears to be getting even more conservative in game management. Middleton Middle School head coach Ryan Eilers offers his expert analysis after compiling a 1-4-2 record with the Cardinals. In Wisconsin’s upcoming matchup with the Iowa Hawkeyes, the Badgers look outmatched in the first three phases. Perhaps, they have an advantage in the fourth phase after using the 42 points surrendered last year to Iowa as a rallying cry all year long. In a classic Big Ten West matchup, do the Wisconsin Badgers need to build a roof over Camp Randall Stadium to get a victory?*Watch on YouTube*Join Bucky's Burrow!*Follow Dillon Graff*Follow Brandon Cooper*Follow Ryan Eilers*Follow Kedrick on Bluesky or the website formerly known as Twitter*Follow the podcast on Twitter/XWe appreciate you taking the time to read our work at BadgerNotes.com. Your support means the world to us and has helped us become the leading source for independent Wisconsin Badgers coverage. Get full access to Badgernotes at www.badgernotes.com/subscribe

The NCAA cannot help but continue to tweak transfer portal rules that it has already proven unenforceable. After former Wisconsin football defensive back Xavier Lucas transferred to the Miami Hurricanes, despite the Wisconsin Badgers never submitting Lucas’ portal paperwork, do these rule changes even matter?A late-night edition of Talkin’ Badgers explores the good and bad of a switch to one transfer portal window, how it would have affected Wisconsin this spring, and how much rule-breaking fans should expect (spoiler: a lot). Additionally, some preliminary thoughts on the NCAA's recent decision to allow athletes to wager on professional sports. It will almost certainly lead to the most predictably stupid college football scandals imaginable. *Watch on YouTube*Join Bucky's Burrow!*Follow Dillon Graff*Follow Brandon Cooper*Follow Ryan Eilers*Follow Kedrick on Bluesky or the website formerly known as Twitter*Follow the podcast on Twitter/XWe appreciate you taking the time to read our work at BadgerNotes.com. Your support means the world to us and has helped us become the leading source for independent Wisconsin Badgers coverage. Get full access to Badgernotes at www.badgernotes.com/subscribe

Wisconsin Badgers head coach Luke Fickell is headed to Ann Arbor in hopes of getting his first-ever win over a ranked opponent with Wisconsin football. Michigan is stout on both its offensive and defensive lines. Join the Talkin’ Badgers crew as they attempt to concoct the recipe for a Badgers upset of the Wolverines. Following Fickell in the never-ending battle against expectations is Greg Gard. In his eleventh season at the helm of Wisconsin basketball, Gard underwent a late offseason staff shakeup, replacing Kirk Penney, the “offensive coordinator,” with Brad Davison as Special Assistant to the Head Coach. Plus, some insider perspective on the coaching change after conversations with Gard and Davison at Wisconsin Badgers men’s basketball practice.*Watch on YouTube*Join Bucky's Burrow!*Follow Dillon Graff*Follow Brandon Cooper*Follow Ryan Eilers*Follow Kedrick on Bluesky or the website formerly known as Twitter*Follow the podcast on Twitter/XWe appreciate you taking the time to read our work at BadgerNotes.com. Your support means the world to us and has helped us become the leading source for independent Wisconsin Badgers coverage. Get full access to Badgernotes at www.badgernotes.com/subscribe

Their young quarterbacks’ hips will tie the Michigan Wolverines and Wisconsin Badgers for the next few years. Carter Smith joined Wisconsin football after seeing the writing on the wall in Ann Arbor that read, “Bryce Underwood is coming.” The five-star freshman QB has excelled for Michigan thus far and hopes to lead his team to a victory over Wisconsin on Saturday. Smith will likely not be on the field for Wisconsin, but the question of who will start at quarterback for the Badgers remains up in the air. What is not in question, however, is the effectiveness of the Wolverines’ ground game.Wisconsin has one of the stoutest rush defenses in the country, but Michigan has one of the most effective rushing offenses in the country. The Wolverines have disrupted opposing passing attacks with 14 sacks through four games, and Wisconsin has struggled in pass protection. Kellen Voss of Maize n Brew joins Talkin’ Badgers to preview the ins and outs of the Michigan Wolverines, what the Wisconsin Badgers must do to give themselves a chance at the upset, and to give his assessment from afar on the state of the Badgers under head coach Luke Fickell. *Watch on YouTube*Follow Kellen Voss!*Read Kellen's articles for Maize n Brew*Join Bucky's Burrow!*Follow Kedrick on Bluesky or the website formerly known as Twitter*Follow the podcast on Twitter/XWe appreciate you taking the time to read our work at BadgerNotes.com. Your support means the world to us and has helped us become the leading source for independent Wisconsin Badgers coverage. Get full access to Badgernotes at www.badgernotes.com/subscribe

In the hours following the first-ever Wisconsin football loss to the Maryland Terrapins, Seamus Rohrer came to a definitive conclusion: he has seen enough. In a pair of columns this week, Rohrer explains why he believes the Wisconsin Badgers need to move on from Luke Fickell, and grades the performance of UW’s position groups, coaches, and fans one-third of the way through the season. Although things have been disappointing in Madison, there are still some bright spots of young talent on the roster. Rohrer joins Talkin’ Badgers for his weekly feature on “Seamus Says,” to preview his column, defend his arguments, and give Wisconsin fans a bit of hope that the Badgers could pull a surprising upset after the bye.*Watch on YouTube*Read: Wisconsin football needs to move on from Luke Fickell*Read: Grading Wisconsin football at the bye week*Follow Seamus Rohrer*Join Bucky's Burrow!*Follow Kedrick on Bluesky or the website formerly known as Twitter*Follow the podcast on Twitter/XWe appreciate you taking the time to read our work at BadgerNotes.com. Your support means the world to us and has helped us become the leading source for independent Wisconsin Badgers coverage. Get full access to Badgernotes at www.badgernotes.com/subscribe

Despite entering the season with low expectations for Wisconsin football, the Talkin’ Badgers After Dark crew was shocked by the disaster inside Camp Randall Stadium on Saturday. Without concrete answers available, an hour of soul-searching ensued. The Wisconsin Badgers have big questions to answer, but the program’s first-ever loss to the Maryland Terrapins should not be left in the rearview mirror. From the offensive line to the defensive secondary, there was plenty of blame to be assigned after the 27-10 defeat. Ultimately, the buck stops with the head coach in a major college football program. A sixth-consecutive Big Ten loss has left Wisconsin at a crossroads. Self-imposed lofty expectations have left the Badgers to oversell and underdeliver. Nonetheless, financial realities leave UW with no easy path forward.In the short term, that path still includes two-thirds of the 2025 college football season to play. Those eight games are crucial data points in evaluating Wisconsin’s coaching staff, players, and fan support.*Watch on YouTube*Follow Dillon Graff*Follow Brandon Cooper*Follow Ryan Eilers*Join Bucky's Burrow!*Follow Kedrick on Bluesky or the website formerly known as Twitter*Follow the podcast on Twitter/XWe appreciate you taking the time to read our work at BadgerNotes.com. Your support means the world to us and has helped us become the leading source for independent Wisconsin Badgers coverage. Get full access to Badgernotes at www.badgernotes.com/subscribe

Even without speaking himself this week, Luke Fickell’s job security continues to dominate conversations. Cam Wilhorn of Wisconsin Badgers OnSI returns to Talkin' Badgers as the fallout continues after Wisconsin's 27-10 loss to the Maryland Terrapins. Wilhorn assesses what he sees as the worst aspects of the Wisconsin football roster. From the offensive line to the secondary, the Badgers have disappointed through four games. At least one position group, however, has been a welcome surprise. Plus, what did the players say after Saturday's disappointing result? Wilhorn shares the perspective of a couple of Badgers veterans who will be relied upon to provide leadership as Wisconsin has no choice but to "pound the rock" through the Luke Fickell era. *Follow Cam Wilhorn*Read Cam Wilhorn's articles for Wisconsin Badgers OnSI*Watch on YouTube*Join Bucky's Burrow!*Follow Kedrick on Bluesky or the website formerly known as Twitter*Follow the podcast on Twitter/XWe appreciate you taking the time to read our work at BadgerNotes.com. Your support means the world to us and has helped us become the leading source for independent Wisconsin Badgers coverage. Get full access to Badgernotes at www.badgernotes.com/subscribe

The last time Wisconsin football had as few yards per rush as they did in their 27-10 loss, its head coach did not coach another football game at UW. Wisconsin’s 1.45 yards per carry on Saturday were the fewest in the Luke Fickell era, and its total 61 yards on the ground were the second-fewest of Fickell’s tenure in Madison. With a bye week upcoming, Wisconsin Badgers fans now have ample time to voice their opinions before Fickell has the chance to coach another game for Wisconsin. Talkin’ Badgers went live late Saturday evening to give fans a voice in that conversation. Between comments, viewers in the live chat, and a special listener call-in, Wisconsin fans sounded off on the state of the Wisconsin football program. *Watch on YouTube*Join Bucky's Burrow!*Follow Kedrick on Bluesky or the website formerly known as Twitter*Follow the podcast on Twitter/XWe appreciate you taking the time to read our work at BadgerNotes.com. Your support means the world to us and has helped us become the leading source for independent Wisconsin Badgers coverage. Get full access to Badgernotes at www.badgernotes.com/subscribe

For the fifth time in the past four seasons, and the fourth time in the Luke Fickell era, Wisconsin football has a new “rock bottom.”A loss to the Maryland Terrapins, the first in program history, in which the Wisconsin Badgers never led, is the latest data point showing Wisconsin is not just trending downward; it is in a complete, undeniable tailspin.Between on-field execution failures in a run game that produced 1.5 yards per rush and a baffling decision to trot out an injured starting quarterback behind a far-from-elite offensive line, booing Badgers fans are running out of patience for Fickell and company. Talkin’ Badgers went live immediately following the loss, if not to dissect the play on the field, to at least blow off some steam.*Watch on YouTube*Join Bucky's Burrow!*Follow Dillon Graff*Follow Kedrick on Bluesky or the website formerly known as Twitter*Follow the podcast on Twitter/XWe appreciate you taking the time to read our work at BadgerNotes.com. Your support means the world to us and has helped us become the leading source for independent Wisconsin Badgers coverage. Get full access to Badgernotes at www.badgernotes.com/subscribe

As the Wisconsin football team puts the finishing touches on its game plan for the Maryland Terrapins, Talkin' Badgers puts the finishing touches on its matchup preview. Gard Your Fickell joins the show to give a slightly different perspective on the Big Ten opener. The analytics show the Wisconsin Badgers are favored by about a touchdown. If the Badgers are going to stop the Terps, late downs appear to be the key. Plus, a look back at what the new-look offense has shown fans three weeks into the Jeff Grimes era. Although Wisconsin hasn't consistently met the threshold for "explosive" plays, the Badgers seem poised to unlock their true potential.*Watch on YouTube*Join Bucky's Burrow!*Follow Gard Your Fickell*Follow Kedrick on Bluesky or the website formerly known as Twitter*Follow the podcast on Twitter/XWe appreciate you taking the time to read our work at BadgerNotes.com. Your support means the world to us and has helped us become the leading source for independent Wisconsin Badgers coverage. Get full access to Badgernotes at www.badgernotes.com/subscribe

The Big Ten finally announced its conference basketball schedules on Thursday. Die-hard Wisconsin basketball fans had already memorized the Wisconsin Badgers’ home and away opponents, but now, those fans can start putting road trips on their calendar. Wisconsin will be spending most of February on the road, as the Badgers are saddled with a schedule that features seven games in a mere 22 days. The kicker: five are on the road. The kicker to the kicker: games in Seattle, Washington, and Eugene, Oregon. Tune in to the latest edition of Talkin’ Badgers to get the ins and outs of the Badgers men’s basketball schedule with thoughts on a light December, the February gauntlet, and to whom Wisconsin can play senior night spoiler.*Watch on YouTube*Join Bucky's Burrow!*Follow Kedrick on Bluesky or the website formerly known as Twitter*Follow the podcast on Twitter/XWe appreciate you taking the time to read our work at BadgerNotes.com. Your support means the world to us and has helped us become the leading source for independent Wisconsin Badgers coverage. Get full access to Badgernotes at www.badgernotes.com/subscribe

After breaking down the film of the loss to the Alabama Crimson Tide, one thing is clear: Wisconsin football has an offensive line problem.Seamus Rohrer joins Talkin' Badgers to share the bad, and even the small amount of good, that he saw from the Wisconsin Badgers' day in Tuscaloosa. From pass protection to the running game, Wisconsin's offensive struggles all seem to stem from its issues up front. Meanwhile, the wide receivers have shown an ability to hang with the best. Against a Maryland Terrapins defensive line that is off to an impressive start, the Badgers will have to turn in a much-improved performance on Saturday. On the other side of the ball, Wisconsin will be challenged by freshman phenom Malik Washington and the Terps' potent passing attack. Plus, a zoology lesson: What's the difference between a turtle, tortoise, and terrapin?*Read Seamus' column*Watch on YouTube*Join Bucky's Burrow!*Follow Seamus Rohrer*Follow Kedrick on Bluesky or the website formerly known as Twitter*Follow the podcast on Twitter/XWe appreciate you taking the time to read our work at BadgerNotes.com. Your support means the world to us and has helped us become the leading source for independent Wisconsin Badgers coverage. Get full access to Badgernotes at www.badgernotes.com/subscribe

Big Ten play awaits Wisconsin football beginning on Saturday inside Camp Randall Stadium. When the Maryland Terrapins come to town, head coach Luke Fickell finds himself in as tenuous a position as ever.With three games in the rearview, Talkin’ Badgers assesses the state of the 2025 Wisconsin Badgers. From the best to the worst position groups on the team, some have room to grow, while others have kept the team afloat. Meanwhile, Wisconsin still has “a mountain to climb.” Can the Badgers reach the summit with Danny O’Neil under center, or do they need starter Billy Edwards Jr. back in the fold before leaving base camp?*Watch on YouTube*Join Bucky's Burrow!*Follow Dillon Graff*Follow Ryan Eilers*Follow Kedrick Stumbris on Bluesky or the website formerly known as Twitter*Follow the podcast on Twitter/XWe appreciate you taking the time to read our work at BadgerNotes.com. Your support means the world to us and has helped us become the leading source for independent Wisconsin Badgers coverage. Get full access to Badgernotes at www.badgernotes.com/subscribe

Head coach Luke Fickell addressed the media on Monday following his team's loss to the Alabama Crimson Tide. As Wisconsin football awaits a visit from the Maryland Terrapins, everyone wants to know if Badgers quarterback Billy Edwards Jr. will get the chance to play against his former team. Fickell dove deep into the need for the offensive line to play in unison, its youngest members to grow into their roles, and its ripple effects throughout the offense. Growth up front might be stunted, however, as center Jake Renfro is dealing with another lower-body injury. Plus, why the third-year Badgers head coach is taking a different approach to losses this season. Talkin' Badgers host Kedrick Stumbris argues that the simple willingness to change that attitude is something Fickell deserves credit for–regardless of results. *Watch on YouTube*Join Bucky's Burrow!*Follow Kedrick on Bluesky or the website formerly known as Twitter*Follow the podcast on Twitter/XWe appreciate you taking the time to read our work at BadgerNotes.com. Your support means the world to us and has helped us become the leading source for independent Wisconsin Badgers coverage. Get full access to Badgernotes at www.badgernotes.com/subscribe

BadgerNotes writer Seamus Rohrer joins Talkin' Badgers to break down his latest columns on the Wisconsin football defense. Rohrer raves about one Wisconsin Badgers newcomer, but notes that coordinator Mike Tressel's unit as a whole needs some work. What will it take for backup quarterback Danny O'Neil to walk into Bryant-Denny Stadium against the Alabama Crimson Tide and exit with a shocking upset? Although UW had its starts and fits in Week 2 against the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders, Rohrer argues that a simple sequencing matter made Wisconsin's performance look less impressive than it actually was. On the show's weekly feature, "Seamus Says," Rohrer makes his final prediction on Wisconsin's fate this Saturday. Although he feels strongly about his prediction, he notes one position group where Wisconsin has a surprising advantage.*Watch on YouTube*Join Bucky's Burrow!*Read Seamus' columns on Mason Reiger and how the Wisconsin football defense must improve*Follow Seamus Rohrer*Follow Kedrick on Bluesky or the website formerly known as Twitter*Follow the podcast on Twitter/XWe appreciate you taking the time to read our work at BadgerNotes.com. Your support means the world to us and has helped us become the leading source for independent Wisconsin Badgers coverage. Get full access to Badgernotes at www.badgernotes.com/subscribe

BadgerNotes writer Seamus Rohrer joins Talkin' Badgers to break down his latest columns on the Wisconsin football defense. Rohrer raves about one Wisconsin Badgers newcomer, but notes that coordinator Mike Tressel's unit as a whole needs some work. What will it take for backup quarterback Danny O'Neil to walk into Bryant-Denny Stadium against the Alabama Crimson Tide and exit with a shocking upset? Although UW had its starts and fits in Week 2 against the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders, Rohrer argues that a simple sequencing matter made Wisconsin's performance look less impressive than it actually was. On the show's weekly feature, "Seamus Says," Rohrer makes his final prediction on Wisconsin's fate this Saturday. Although he feels strongly about his prediction, he notes one position group where Wisconsin has a surprising advantage.*Watch on YouTube*Join Bucky's Burrow!*Read Seamus' columns on Mason Reiger and how the Wisconsin football defense must improve*Follow Seamus Rohrer*Follow Kedrick on Bluesky or the website formerly known as Twitter*Follow the podcast on Twitter/XWe appreciate you taking the time to read our work at BadgerNotes.com. Your support means the world to us and has helped us become the leading source for independent Wisconsin Badgers coverage. Get full access to Badgernotes at www.badgernotes.com/subscribe

A 42-10 final score gives the appearance of a dominant win over the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders, but Wisconsin football was far from dominant in the first half. The Wisconsin Badgers have much to improve, but also many reasons to have their heads held high. Chief among those reasons is the play of quarterback Danny O’Niel. With a record-setting performance in his first start as a Badger, the San Diego State transfer played a nearly perfect game. In the instant reaction episode of Talkin’ Badgers, BadgerNotes publisher Dillon Graff, live from the Camp Randall Stadium press box, joined host Kedrick Stumbris to break down their immediate takeaways, including thoughts on Wisconsin’s offense, defense, special teams, and coaching.If you want to see these episodes as soon as they go live after every Wisconsin Badgers football game, subscribe to the Talkin’ Badgers YouTube channel!*Watch on YouTube*Join Bucky's Burrow!*Follow Dillon Graff*Follow Kedrick on Bluesky or the website formerly known as Twitter*Follow the podcast on Twitter/XWe appreciate you taking the time to read our work at BadgerNotes.com. Your support means the world to us and has helped us become the leading source for independent Wisconsin Badgers coverage. Get full access to Badgernotes at www.badgernotes.com/subscribe

For the first time in a long time, the Wisconsin Badgers are scheduled to play a home game inside Camp Randall Stadium on a traditional college football Saturday. For the first time in an unbelievably even longer time, the Wisconsin football team might walk off Barry Alvarez Field a winner on a Saturday. Although the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders do not look like a formidable foe, head coach Luke Fickell has a formidable task ahead of him. As Wisconsin prepares for more challenging matchups ahead, the Badgers must take advantage of what may be their final opportunity to prove themselves against a lesser opponent. On today's episode of Talkin' Badgers, discover the four key Middle Tennessee Players to watch on Saturday. Plus, find out precisely what Wisconsin can prove by limiting the impact of those four players. Oh, yeah, and Middle Tennessee has a player in their eighth year of college football.*Watch on YouTube*Join Bucky's Burrow!*Follow Kedrick on Bluesky or the website formerly known as Twitter*Follow the podcast on Twitter/XWe appreciate you taking the time to read our work at BadgerNotes.com. Your support means the world to us and has helped us become the leading source for independent Wisconsin Badgers coverage. Get full access to Badgernotes at www.badgernotes.com/subscribe

On this weekly edition of "Seamus Says," Kedrick and Seamus dive into the film room in search of an answer to the long-asked question: Does Wisconsin football have a pass rush? BadgerNotes columnist Seamus Rohrer joins Talkin' Badgers to get the last word on the Wisconsin football defense, backup quarterback Danny O'Neil's Week 1 performance, and how the Wisconsin Badgers compared to other Big Ten programs opening their season last Saturday. Seamus gets his weekly dose of therapy and finds some "dark comedy" in the season-opener.Plus, Seamus calls one UW defender a "program stalwart"–singing a far different tune than just one week prior. As Wisconsin looks to turn a shutout performance against a lesser opponent into a launch pad for success, Kedrick and Seamus assess what the Badgers must showcase in Week 2 against the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders.Plus, we announce the winner of our first ticket giveaway of the season!Timestamps:0:00 - Intro & Ticket Giveaway Winner!3:08 - Seamus Rohrer: Does Wisconsin football have a pass rush?15:25 - How do the Wisconsin Badgers respond to another season of QB2?24:22 - Previewing the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders31:12 - Wrap-Up & Schedule Reminder*Read Seamus' column*Watch on YouTube*Join Bucky's Burrow!*Follow Kedrick on Bluesky or the website formerly known as Twitter*Follow the podcast on Twitter/XWe appreciate you taking the time to read our work at BadgerNotes.com. Your support means the world to us and has helped us become the leading source for independent Wisconsin Badgers coverage. Get full access to Badgernotes at www.badgernotes.com/subscribe

You all have helped us have a great month of Talkin' Badgers, so we're giving back to all you fine Wisconsin football fans. We're giving away a pair of tickets to see the Wisconsin Badgers and Middle Tennessee State Blue Raiders! There are two ways to enter, so be sure to read the official contest rules below and get in the action!Additionally, some aspects of the Wisconsin Badgers' performance impressed me after I rewatched their game against the Miami RedHawks, while others left something to be desired. Jeff Grimes delivered when Badgers fans needed him to most. One side of the trenches looked even better the second time around, and the other was even shakier than I first thought. Timestamps:0:00 - Intro & Ticket Giveaway Details4:20 - Wisconsin vs. Miami Rewatch: Jeff Grimes Delivers9:00 - The Offensive Line Struggles, How Grimes' Adapts, RB Pass Blocking15:45 - Badgers Defensive Backs Impressed in Limited Work18:25 - Wisconsin Football Defensive Line Steals the Show23:00 - Wrap-Up & Giveaway Reminder*Watch on YouTube*Join Bucky's Burrow!*Follow Kedrick on Bluesky or the website formerly known as Twitter*Follow the podcast on Twitter/XWe appreciate you taking the time to read our work at BadgerNotes.com. Your support means the world to us and has helped us become the leading source for independent Wisconsin Badgers coverage.Official Contest Rules: NO PURCHASE OR PAYMENT OF ANY KIND IS NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. A PURCHASE WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING.1. Sponsor: This contest is sponsored by BadgerNotes Media Group.2. Eligibility: This contest is open to legal residents of the United States who are 18 years of age or older at the time of entry. Void where prohibited by law. Employees, affiliates, and immediate family members of BadgerNotes Media Group are not eligible to enter.3. Contest Period: The contest begins on September 1, 2025, at 3:30 PM Central Daylight Time and ends on Thursday, September 4th, 2025, at 8:00 AM Central Daylight Time. Entries submitted after the end date and time will not be eligible.4. How to Enter: A participant may submit one (1) entry via YouTube and one (1) entry via X. Each valid entry will be counted individually toward the total number of entries.Method 1: YouTube Entry To enter via YouTube, participants must:Be subscribed to the Talkin’ Badgers YouTube channel (@TalkinBadgers).Like the official contest video titled "GIVEAWAY | Wisconsin Football Rewatch & Free Tickets!"Leave a comment on the video as instructed in the video itself.Method 2: Twitter Entry To enter via Twitter, participants must:Follow our X account, @TalkinBadgers.Like the official contest tweet.Retweet the official contest tweet.Tag a friend in the replies of the official contest tweet.5. Prize: One (1) winner will receive two (2) tickets to the Wisconsin Badgers football game on Saturday, September 6th, 2025, at 3:00 PM Central Daylight Time at Camp Randall Stadium. The prize is non-transferable and cannot be redeemed for cash.6. Winner Selection & Notification: A winner will be selected at random from all valid entries within 24 hours of the contest end date. The winner will be announced in a future video, a Community Tab post, a pinned comment on the contest video, and/or a post on the Talkin’ Badgers X account. The winner must contact us via YouTube or X and provide their email within 24 hours to claim the prize. If the prize is not claimed within this time, an alternate winner may be selected.7. Release of Liability: By participating, each entrant agrees to release and hold harmless YouTube, X, BadgerNotes Media Group, and its affiliates from any and all liability, claims, or actions of any kind whatsoever for injuries, damages, or losses to persons and property which may be sustained in connection with the receipt, ownership, or use of the prize.8. General Conditions:This contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed, or administered by, or associated with, YouTube or Twitter.Entrants must comply with all YouTube Community Guidelines and Terms of Service, as well as the Twitter Rules and Terms of Service. Entries that do not comply will be disqualified.All federal, state, and local laws and regulations apply. The winner is responsible for any taxes associated with the prize.BadgerNotes Media Group reserves the right to modify or terminate this contest at any time for any reason.9. Privacy: Any personal information collected from entrants will be used solely for the purpose of administering this contest. Get full access to Badgernotes at www.badgernotes.com/subscribe

You all have helped us have a great month of Talkin' Badgers, so we're giving back to all you fine Wisconsin football fans. We're giving away a pair of tickets to see the Wisconsin Badgers and Middle Tennessee State Blue Raiders! There are two ways to enter, so be sure to read the official contest rules below and get in the action!Additionally, some aspects of the Wisconsin Badgers' performance impressed me after I rewatched their game against the Miami RedHawks, while others left something to be desired. Jeff Grimes delivered when Badgers fans needed him to most. One side of the trenches looked even better the second time around, and the other was even shakier than I first thought. Timestamps:0:00 - Intro & Ticket Giveaway Details4:20 - Wisconsin vs. Miami Rewatch: Jeff Grimes Delivers9:00 - The Offensive Line Struggles, How Grimes' Adapts, RB Pass Blocking15:45 - Badgers Defensive Backs Impressed in Limited Work18:25 - Wisconsin Football Defensive Line Steals the Show23:00 - Wrap-Up & Giveaway Reminder*Watch on YouTube*Join Bucky's Burrow!*Follow Kedrick on Bluesky or the website formerly known as Twitter*Follow the podcast on Twitter/XWe appreciate you taking the time to read our work at BadgerNotes.com. Your support means the world to us and has helped us become the leading source for independent Wisconsin Badgers coverage.Official Contest Rules: NO PURCHASE OR PAYMENT OF ANY KIND IS NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. A PURCHASE WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING.1. Sponsor: This contest is sponsored by BadgerNotes Media Group.2. Eligibility: This contest is open to legal residents of the United States who are 18 years of age or older at the time of entry. Void where prohibited by law. Employees, affiliates, and immediate family members of BadgerNotes Media Group are not eligible to enter.3. Contest Period: The contest begins on September 1, 2025, at 3:30 PM Central Daylight Time and ends on Thursday, September 4th, 2025, at 8:00 AM Central Daylight Time. Entries submitted after the end date and time will not be eligible.4. How to Enter: A participant may submit one (1) entry via YouTube and one (1) entry via X. Each valid entry will be counted individually toward the total number of entries.Method 1: YouTube Entry To enter via YouTube, participants must:Be subscribed to the Talkin’ Badgers YouTube channel (@TalkinBadgers).Like the official contest video titled "GIVEAWAY | Wisconsin Football Rewatch & Free Tickets!"Leave a comment on the video as instructed in the video itself.Method 2: Twitter Entry To enter via Twitter, participants must:Follow our X account, @TalkinBadgers.Like the official contest tweet.Retweet the official contest tweet.Tag a friend in the replies of the official contest tweet.5. Prize: One (1) winner will receive two (2) tickets to the Wisconsin Badgers football game on Saturday, September 6th, 2025, at 3:00 PM Central Daylight Time at Camp Randall Stadium. The prize is non-transferable and cannot be redeemed for cash.6. Winner Selection & Notification: A winner will be selected at random from all valid entries within 24 hours of the contest end date. The winner will be announced in a future video, a Community Tab post, a pinned comment on the contest video, and/or a post on the Talkin’ Badgers X account. The winner must contact us via YouTube or X and provide their email within 24 hours to claim the prize. If the prize is not claimed within this time, an alternate winner may be selected.7. Release of Liability: By participating, each entrant agrees to release and hold harmless YouTube, X, BadgerNotes Media Group, and its affiliates from any and all liability, claims, or actions of any kind whatsoever for injuries, damages, or losses to persons and property which may be sustained in connection with the receipt, ownership, or use of the prize.8. General Conditions:This contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed, or administered by, or associated with, YouTube or Twitter.Entrants must comply with all YouTube Community Guidelines and Terms of Service, as well as the Twitter Rules and Terms of Service. Entries that do not comply will be disqualified.All federal, state, and local laws and regulations apply. The winner is responsible for any taxes associated with the prize.BadgerNotes Media Group reserves the right to modify or terminate this contest at any time for any reason.9. Privacy: Any personal information collected from entrants will be used solely for the purpose of administering this contest. Get full access to Badgernotes at www.badgernotes.com/subscribe

Following Friday’s report that eliminated “the worst fears” of Wisconsin Badgers fans, things remain clear as mud in Madison. An uncertain handful of weeks at quarterback is something Luke Fickell navigated as recently as 2023. That led to two of UW’s most embarrassing losses in recent memory against the Indiana Hoosiers and Northwestern Wildcats. Make no bones about it, the 2025 Wisconsin football team is very different than its recent counterparts. The challenges of the most difficult schedule in the country, however, remain. With limited opportunities for new offensive coordinator Jeff Grimes to get his unit’s feet wet, every snap matters. A lingering injury to Billy Edwards Jr. cuts into the already slim margin Wisconsin has this year. In this episode of Talkin’ Badgers, host Kedrick Stumbris was live on Friday night, recapping the most recent injury update to Edwards, assessing Fickell’s options in the weeks ahead, and predicting how Grimes’ offense could look different with backup Danny O’Neil at the helm. *Watch on YouTube*Join Bucky's Burrow!*Follow Kedrick on Bluesky or the website formerly known as Twitter*Follow the podcast on Twitter/XWe appreciate you taking the time to read our work at BadgerNotes.com. Your support means the world to us and has helped us become the leading source for independent Wisconsin Badgers coverage. Get full access to Badgernotes at www.badgernotes.com/subscribe

In a perhaps not-so-instant reaction show of Talkin’ Badgers due to the news of the evening, we digest the rollercoaster three hours Wisconsin football fans had inside Camp Randall Stadium on Thursday night. Yes, the Wisconsin Badgers walked off of Barry Alvarez Field with a 17-0 victory, but the final score nearly felt like an afterthought. Jeff Grimes and Jackson Acker returned the Wisconsin offense to its roots with a fullback dive. Sebastian Cheeks, Mason Reiger, and Christian Alliegro tormented the Miami RedHawks’ offensive backfield. Nathanial Vakos did what he failed to do all last year and hit a field goal from between 40 and 49 yards. Nonetheless, it was yet another apparent significant injury to yet another one-year transfer starting quarterback that dominated the post-game headlines. *Watch on YouTube*Join Bucky's Burrow!*Follow Kedrick on Bluesky or the website formerly known as Twitter*Follow the podcast on Twitter/XWe appreciate you taking the time to read our work at BadgerNotes.com. Your support means the world to us and has helped us become the leading source for independent Wisconsin Badgers coverage. Get full access to Badgernotes at www.badgernotes.com/subscribe

The lengthiest offseason in over two decades has finally reached its conclusion. Wisconsin football opens the season inside Camp Randall Stadium tonight; BadgerNotes columnist Seamus Rohrer joins Talkin' Badgers to preview what he wants to see from every position group in the season-opener. When the Wisconsin Badgers take to Barry Alvarez Field, they will be faced with the challenge of showcasing a new offense, revitalizing the pass rush, and containing a dynamic runner in Miami Redhawks quarterback Dequan Finn. Even if Wisconsin ends up victorious, can head coach Luke Fickell's team show Badgers fans enough to inspire confidence for the season that is to come?On our weekly edition of "Seamus Says," Kedrick and Seamus break down the personnel questions they hope to see answered tonight. *Watch on YouTube*Read Seamus's Column*Join Bucky's Burrow!*Follow Seamus on X*Follow Kedrick on Bluesky or the website formerly known as Twitter*Follow the podcast on Twitter/XWe appreciate you taking the time to read our work at BadgerNotes.com. Your support means the world to us and has helped us become the leading source for independent Wisconsin Badgers coverage. Get full access to Badgernotes at www.badgernotes.com/subscribe

After 270 days, Wisconsin football fans only have to wait 48 more hours for kickoff inside Camp Randall Stadium. Before it all gets underway, the boys of Talkin' Badgers After Dark preview the Badgers' season-opener against the Miami Redhawks and recap the last week of news in Madison. The first two-deep of the season released on Monday revealed the staff's tremendous belief in Dilin Jones. How high is Jones' ceiling? Will it be limited or bolstered by his potential NFL prospects?Offensive line coach AJ Blazek has his starting center, Jake Renfro, back after an injury late in fall camp. For an offensive line returning 111 starts, the unit may have more question marks on the depth chart than in past years. The guys debate the quality and quantity of depth pieces on both sides of the trenches in Madison. Timestamps0:00 - Intro & Beverage Roundup3:00 - Graham Mertz's Historic Nod to an NFL Roster5:00 - Is Dilin Jones the Next Great Wisconsin Football Running back?13:50 - Badgers OL vs. DL depth–which holds up after 12 games?27:00 - Previewing the Miami Redhawks41:00 - UW's Young Linebackers vs. Veteran QB Dequan Finn45:00 - Confidence and Concerns for Thursday Night51:00 - Luke Fickell's Attire, the Arch March, and Wrap-up*Watch on YouTube*Join Bucky's Burrow! *Follow Kedrick on Bluesky or the website formerly known as Twitter*Follow the podcast on Twitter/XWe appreciate you taking the time to read our work at BadgerNotes.com. Your support means the world to us and has helped us become the leading source for independent Wisconsin Badgers coverage. Get full access to Badgernotes at www.badgernotes.com/subscribe

The wait is over! Wisconsin football has released its first depth chart of 2025 ahead of Thursday's opener against Miami (OH), and it's full of surprises. From a "kitchen sink" approach on defense to a historical first for the running back room, an initial look at the two-deep reveals a lot about Luke Fickell's plans for 2025.First, we analyze the significant number of "OR" designations on the defensive front. It might be the key to unlocking the upside of the new talent on the defense. On a team that finished last in FBS in tackles for loss a season ago, the plethora of options is a sight for sore eyes. Then, does offensive coordinator Jeff Grimes see a budding star in Dilin Jones? With a veteran-laden offensive line, willing blockers throughout the roster, and a historic placement atop the preseason depth chart, the Badgers look prepared to run the dang ball.*Watch on YouTube*More two-deep takeaways*Follow Kedrick on Bluesky or the website formerly known as Twitter*Follow the podcast on Twitter/XWe appreciate you taking the time to read our work at BadgerNotes.com. Your support means the world to us and has helped us become the leading source for independent Wisconsin Badgers coverage. Get full access to Badgernotes at www.badgernotes.com/subscribe

On this episode of Talkin’ Badgers, we're doing a deep dive into the pipeline for former Wisconsin Badgers linebackers in the AFC and NFC North. We're breaking down how former Wisconsin football stars on four NFL teams are performing and what impact they might have on their squads this season.Join us as we talk about the Pittsburgh Steelers' Badger-made defense: T.J. Watt is now the highest-paid non-quarterback in the league, but he's not the only former Badger terrorizing offenses in Pittsburgh. We'll discuss the immense potential of Nick Herbig and Keeanu Benton, as well as the depth provided by Isaiahh Loudermilk.Between former undrafted free agents Maema Njongmeta and Joe Huber, unsung Wisconsin alums are quickly making their mark in the league. After Njongmeta's breakout season as a special teamer, a bigger role could be in store. Meanwhile, Huber might be a highly sought-after lineman on the waiver wire.Finally, a pair of highly-touted and highly-paid linebackers in the NFC North: Andrew Van Ginkel and TJ Edwards. With a couple of win-now contracts for these Badgers, they could be in for deep postseason runs.Timestamps:0:00 - Intro: The Badgers in the AFC & NFC North1:14 - The Steelers' Badger Defense (T.J. Watt, Nick Herbig, etc.)7:20 - The Bengals' Badger Presence (Maema Njongmeta, Kendric Pryor)10:55 - The Minnesota Vikings (Joe Huber, Andrew Van Ginkel)14:55 - The Chicago Bears' Badger Linebacker (TJ Edwards)16:45 - Conclusion & Final Thoughts*Watch on YouTube*Follow Kedrick on Bluesky or the website formerly known as Twitter*Follow the podcast on Twitter/XWe appreciate you taking the time to read our work at BadgerNotes.com. Your support means the world to us and has helped us become the leading source for independent Wisconsin Badgers coverage. Get full access to Badgernotes at www.badgernotes.com/subscribe

With fall camp in the Wisconsin Badgers’ rearview mirror, and Week 1 fewer than seven days away, we’re cracking open the Talkin’ Badgers mailbag to answer the big questions from Wisconsin football fans. In this episode, host Kedrick Stumbris delves into why offensive line depth is UW’s most significant weakness, answers the meta-question of Wisconsin’s biggest roster question, and analyzes offensive coordinator Jeff Grimes’ past offenses to reveal what is coming this fall in Madison. Finally, we wrap up the show with the question dividing the Badgers fanbase: was it all really just about the quarterback?If you haven't already, join Bucky's Burrow today!Timestamps:0:00 - Intro: Welcome to the Mailbag!1:40 - The Team’s Biggest Weakness: Offensive Line Depth6:15 - Biggest Question Mark: Front Seven Improvement14:00 - Biggest Surprise of Fall Camp16:30 - What to Make of Dekel Crowdus19:45 - Offensive Tempo & Philosophy24:30 - The "What if We Had a Healthy QB?" Debate*Watch on YouTube*Follow Kedrick on Bluesky or the website formerly known as Twitter*Follow the podcast on Twitter/XWe appreciate you taking the time to read our work at BadgerNotes.com. Your support means the world to us and has helped us become the leading source for independent Wisconsin Badgers coverage. Get full access to Badgernotes at www.badgernotes.com/subscribe

This fall will be a defining one for Wisconsin football under head coach Luke Fickell, and perhaps one game will define this fall more than any other. BadgerNotes columnist Seamus Rohrer has boldly declared that "a 0-3 start against the Hawkeyes would be another massive indictment on the Fickell era."In the premiere of our Talkin' Badgers recurring segment, "Seamus Says," Seamus joins host Kedrick Stumbris to discuss his latest column, the game-by-game outlook for the Badgers, and make the case for why a win against Iowa and reclaiming the Heartland Trophy could make or break Fickell's third year in Madison. Timestamps:0:00 - Intro: Previewing the 2025 Wisconsin Football Season4:15 - Miami (OH): A Litmus Test for UW's Linebackers6:25 - Badgers vs. Brand Names: Alabama, Michigan, Ohio State, Oregon10:30 - Seamus Says: "The Most Important Game for Fickell this Fall"16:15 - The Gauntlet Continues Against Indiana and Illinois22:20 - Can Wisconsin Reclaim the Axe and Get Bowl Eligible?*Watch on YouTube*Follow Seamus Rohrer*Follow Kedrick on Bluesky or the website formerly known as Twitter*Follow the podcast on Twitter/XWe appreciate you taking the time to read our work at BadgerNotes.com. Your support means the world to us and has helped us become the leading source for independent Wisconsin Badgers coverage. Get full access to Badgernotes at www.badgernotes.com/subscribe

It's the season premiere of Talkin' Badgers After Dark as host Kedrick Stumbris is joined by site publisher Dillon Graff, guest Ryan Eilers, and supermodel Jason Long. The boys crack jokes, wise, and beverages as they do a game-by-game schedule prediction for Wisconsin football in 2025. The guys discuss the potential for a third consecutive slow start in Madison, Wisconsin's challenging October slate, the final critical four weeks of the season, and the tenuous tenure of Luke Fickell. *Watch on YouTube*Follow Dillon Graff*Follow Jason Long*Follow Ryan Eilers*Follow Kedrick on Bluesky or the website formerly known as Twitter*Follow the podcast on Twitter/XWe appreciate you taking the time to read our work at BadgerNotes.com. Your support means the world to us and has helped us become the leading source for independent Wisconsin Badgers coverage. Get full access to Badgernotes at www.badgernotes.com/subscribe

The preseason is officially underway, and so is our scouting of former Wisconsin Badgers in the NFL! In this Badgers in the Bigs episode of Talkin’ Badgers, we're doing a full deep dive into the NFC West and AFC West to see how Wisconsin's guys are faring in the pro ranks. We'll break down who is making a splash, who is on the bubble, and what to expect from them this season.Here's a look at what we're covering:NFC West:Arizona Cardinals: We'll check in on the team's undrafted free agent, Bryson Green, and analyze his preseason snaps and his chances of making the final roster.Los Angeles Rams: We discuss the incredible longevity of veteran offensive tackle Rob Havenstein as he enters his 11th season, all with the Rams, despite some weird health questions for quarterback Matt Stafford.San Francisco 49ers: We have a bit of a tragic tale with quarterback Tanner Mordecai, who has had a rough preseason with the team, and a more hopeful one with running back Isaac Guerendo, who is returning to practice after an injury and is poised for a significant role. AFC West:Denver Broncos: We'll cover the unfortunate injury to defensive end Matt Henningsen and reflect on his future in football. But the good news is that we have a Badger on the coaching staff with Jim Leonhard, who now has new weapons on a defense that was one of the best in the league last year.Kansas City Chiefs: We'll dive into the final year of linebacker Leo Chenal's rookie deal and discuss whether there's money left for him on a defense that's invested heavily in its core, with extensions for George Karlaftis and Nick Bolton.*Watch on YouTube*Follow Kedrick on Bluesky or the website formerly known as Twitter*Follow the podcast on Twitter/XWe appreciate you taking the time to read our work at BadgerNotes.com. Your support means the world to us and has helped us become the leading source for independent Wisconsin Badgers coverage. Get full access to Badgernotes at www.badgernotes.com/subscribe

Fall camp is officially over, and the Wisconsin football is now in game-prep mode! In this special "therapy" episode of Talkin’ Badgers, Kedrick conducts a comprehensive mental debrief on the team, breaking down everything he's seen and heard using the "I Know, I Think, I Feel" framework.Here's what we cover in this can't-miss fall camp recap:I KNOW: The Badgers will have to lean on young talent this season. From the offense to the defense, we break down how Wisconsin's season will be defined by moments with high variance and why fans should be prepared for some highs and lows. We also discuss the immediate impact of injuries piling up on the offensive side of the ball.I THINK: Wisconsin has a deep cornerback room. Despite some questions about injuries and eligibility, Kedrick and, more importantly, head coach Luke Fickell, remain optimistic about the group. We break down the emergence of a few newcomers and the overall depth of the secondary.I FEEL: About the same as I did at the start of camp. We discuss why Kedrick still feels like this team will have to "scrap" to make a bowl game.0:00 - Intro: What's on My Mind After Camp's Final Day3:00 - I KNOW: The Youth Movement16:30 - I THINK: The Unexpected Depth at Cornerback22:20 - I FEEL: The State of the Badgers Heading into the Season29:00 - The Future and Final Thoughts*Luke Fickell full media availability*Watch on YouTube*Follow Kedrick on Bluesky or the website formerly known as Twitter*Follow the podcast on Twitter/XWe appreciate you taking the time to read our work at BadgerNotes.com. Your support means the world to us and has helped us become the leading source for independent Wisconsin Badgers coverage. Get full access to Badgernotes at www.badgernotes.com/subscribe

We're talking Wisconsin Badgers in the NFL! In this episode of Talkin' Badgers, we're doing a deep dive into every Wisconsin football alum currently playing in the AFC and NFC South. We'll break down their roles, their training camp storylines, and their potential to have a breakout 2025 season.We'll cover these teams in order:Indianapolis Colts: It's the Jonathan Taylor show! But we'll also talk about the new starting role for Tanor Bortolini in his second season and the crucial role of safety Hunter Wohler.Houston Texans: The biggest story is now the nightmare debut of quarterback Graham Mertz. We'll break down his disastrous first preseason performance, the future of wide receiver Quintez Cephus on the roster, and the return of Dare Ogunbowale.Tennessee Titans: We discuss the key veteran presence of offensive lineman Kevin Zeitler and the young, dynamic wide receiver Chimere Dike as the team rebuilds around its new quarterback.Jacksonville Jaguars: We'll break down the role of offensive lineman Cole Van Lanen and his importance on the depth chart.Atlanta Falcons: We analyze the team's offensive line situation and the potential for former Badger Jack Nelson to be a key part of the unit.*Watch on YouTube*Follow Kedrick on Bluesky or the website formerly known as Twitter*Follow the podcast on Twitter/XWe appreciate you taking the time to read our work at BadgerNotes.com. Your support means the world to us and has helped us become the leading source for independent Wisconsin Badgers coverage. Get full access to Badgernotes at www.badgernotes.com/subscribe

In Platteville, Wisconsin football is in the thick of fall camp, and there's a lot to talk about! In this episode of Talkin’ Badgers, we're breaking down the latest developments, including some major news on the offensive line and an exciting new playmaker on offense.First, the big story: starting center Jake Renfro's injury. We dive into the details of his "week-to-week" status and the ripple effect this has on the entire offensive line. What does this mean for the stability of the unit, and who is stepping up to fill his shoes? We analyze the potential replacements and the impact this could have on the season opener.But it's not all bad news! We also turn our attention to the offensive side of the ball and the incredible performance of true freshman wide receiver Eugene Hilton Jr. The son of a former NFL star, Hilton has been making viral contested catches and turning heads throughout camp. We discuss what makes him a potential breakout star and how he could factor into the Badgers' offense as a true freshman.*Follow Kedrick on Bluesky or the website formerly known as Twitter We appreciate you taking the time to read our work at BadgerNotes.com. Your support means the world to us and has helped us become the leading source for independent Wisconsin Badgers coverage. Get full access to Badgernotes at www.badgernotes.com/subscribe