After a disappointing 5-7 season, and with a brutal schedule looming in 2025, Wisconsin football finds itself in an uncomfortable spot. The Badgers have been very uneven since Luke Fickell took over the head coaching duties, and some fans are wondering if the program is heading in the right direction. Former coach and athletic director Barry Alvarez, who is forever intertwined with Badger football, offered his two cents on Fickell and the program on ESPN Madison.
"I think we have the right person in charge," said Alvarez. "I think Luke [Fickell] understands the Big Ten. He knows how to win...he's the right guy to be here. I really feel good about that. I like the players in the program, I like the attitude."
It's a strong endorsement from the Wisconsin legend, who didn't seem as confident back in the spring. Alvarez, in another interview with ESPN Madison back in February, was not as effusive.
"I don't like where we are right now," he said. "They need to bounce back and put this program back where it belongs. "
Has Wisconsin turned over a new leaf in the eyes of Barry Alvarez?
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The Don has been attending a few recent practices, and it appears as though he likes what he sees. Fickell and new offensive coordinator Jeff Grimes have long spoken about their intentions on returning Wisconsin to the gritty, physical team that brought them acclaim all throughout the nineties and 2000s.
With a 13-13 overall record since coming to Madison, Fickell's seat has gotten warmer each year. While his recruiting classes have ranked well, it has yet to translate to much on-field success. He now faces a pivotal year in 2025, but looks to have the full backing of Alvarez, whose opinion is still very highly regarded among Badger fans.