The Wisconsin Badgers, coached by Luke Fickell, aim to start the 2024 season with a major upset against the No. 4 Notre Dame Fighting Irish. A strong showing could alleviate pressure on Fickell, who is entering his fourth season with the program. Three key factors could contribute to a Wisconsin victory.
The Badgers have a favorable schedule, avoiding matchups against several top teams including Oregon, Michigan, Ohio State, and Indiana. Notre Dame’s historical struggles in early-season games present a prime opportunity for Wisconsin to capitalize. The Irish have lost games before September 14 in recent seasons, including a shock loss to Northern Illinois. The reason for this slow start is unknown, but Wisconsin hopes to exploit it.
Wisconsin’s backfield, featuring Abu Sama III and Colton Joseph, appears particularly promising. Sama compiled four 100+ yard rushing games during his time in the Big 12. Joseph, formerly of Old Dominion, has nine games with at least 250 passing yards and four with at least 100 rushing yards in his career. These two players could be pivotal in securing a win.
Finally, Wisconsin’s defense, despite last year’s offensive struggles, allowed only 323.6 yards per game – the 23rd-best in the nation – while facing seven AP Top 25 teams. With the addition of transfers like safety Marvin Burks Jr., and Notre Dame’s tendency to start slowly, the Badgers’ defense is poised to challenge the Irish.
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