Big Ten Media Poll doesn't show much confidence in 2025 Badgers

After a disappointing 5-7 season, Wisconsin is in desperate need of a quick turnaround. Luke Fickell has gone out and added a new quarterback, a new offensive coordinator, and has completely rebuilt a porous defensive front. Despite all the shiny new toys however, it seems that the Big Ten media isn't optimistic about the 2025 Badgers.

In a media poll from Cleveland.com, the Badgers are predicted to finish 12th in the Big Ten. Wisconsin was picked 7th last year in the same preseason poll.

Should Badger fans' be worried about the preseason projections?

While preseason polls are rarely perfect, it does paint a bleak picture for the state of Badger football. In Fickell's third season, which let's be honest, should be his peak, it looks to be completely the opposite. The last two years haven't shown much progress, and this season already figures to be an uphill battle with the difficulty of the schedule. Even with an improved system and roster, Wisconsin may struggle just to hit a .500 record.

Quarterback and defensive line are certainly better than the 2024 squad, but nearly every other position group could tilt either way. In some ways, there's optimism that most units could lean towards improved, leaving Wisconsin with a solid roster all around. But with so many new transfers, it's difficult to feel certain about anything.

A lot of good change has happened this offseason though, with a switch back to a more physical, ground and pound style of play, but it's hard to argue that the Badgers will be anything more than a middle of the pack team in 2025. Of course anything can happen, but the lack of top end roster talent combined with the hardest schedule in the conference make for a difficult year no matter who you are.