The Wisconsin Badgers football program enters the 2024 season looking to build on their successful 2023 campaign. Coming off of a conference championship and a thrilling bowl game victory, the Badgers have a lot of excitement and momentum heading into the new year. Here’s a closer look at their upcoming schedule:
The Badgers kick off their season with a non-conference matchup against the Ball State Cardinals, a team they faced and defeated in 2021. Following this season opener, the team embarks on a challenging stretch of games, including back-to-back road contests against the Ohio State Buckeyes and the Penn State Nittany Lions. These games will undoubtedly test the Badgers’ resolve and mettle.
After a much-anticipated bye week, Wisconsin hits the field once again, welcoming the Minnesota Golden Gophers to Camp Randall Stadium. This rivalry game is sure to bring intensity and passion from both teams.
Wisconsin Badgers Schedule 2024
The Wisconsin Badgers football team has released its 2024 schedule, featuring exciting matchups and challenging opponents.
- Season opener vs. Ball State Cardinals
- Back-to-back road games vs. Ohio State, Penn State
- Homecoming game vs. Minnesota Golden Gophers
- Rivalry clash with Iowa Hawkeyes in Iowa City
- Tough test against Michigan Wolverines in Ann Arbor
- B1G Championship Game rematch with Purdue Boilermakers
- Potential bowl game appearance
- Camp Randall Stadium hosting key matchups
- Newcomers and veterans ready to make an impact
- High expectations for the upcoming season
The Badgers aim to build on their successful 2023 campaign and make a run for the College Football Playoff.
Season opener vs. Ball State
The Wisconsin Badgers kick off their 2024 football season with a non-conference matchup against the Ball State Cardinals on Saturday, August 31st, at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.
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Home-field advantage:
The Badgers will have the home-field advantage in this game, which can be a significant factor in college football. Camp Randall Stadium is known for its passionate and knowledgeable fans, who create a loud and intimidating atmosphere for visiting teams. -
Familiar opponent:
The Badgers and Ball State have faced each other twice before, with Wisconsin winning both games. This familiarity can be advantageous for the Badgers, as they can use their past experiences to prepare for the upcoming matchup. -
Measuring stick game:
The game against Ball State will serve as a measuring stick for the Badgers to assess their strengths and weaknesses early in the season. A strong performance against an FCS opponent can boost the team’s confidence and set the tone for the rest of the year. -
Setting the stage for conference play:
The season opener against Ball State is an opportunity for the Badgers to fine-tune their execution and make any necessary adjustments before they enter Big Ten conference play. A successful start to the season can provide momentum and motivation heading into the more challenging games later on.
Overall, the season opener against Ball State is a crucial game for the Wisconsin Badgers as they look to start the season on a positive note and set the stage for a successful campaign.
Back-to-back road games vs. Ohio State, Penn State
The Wisconsin Badgers face a daunting challenge in the middle of their 2024 season when they embark on a two-game road trip to face the Ohio State Buckeyes and the Penn State Nittany Lions in consecutive weeks.
Ohio State Buckeyes (October 5th, Columbus, Ohio):
- A perennial powerhouse: The Ohio State Buckeyes are one of the top teams in the country year in and year out. They boast a talented roster, led by dynamic playmakers on both sides of the ball.
- Home-field disadvantage: Playing in Columbus is no easy task for any opponent. Ohio Stadium is one of the largest and loudest venues in college football, giving the Buckeyes a significant home-field advantage.
- Recent history: The Badgers have struggled against Ohio State in recent years, losing their last four meetings. They will need to find a way to break this losing streak if they want to come away with a victory in Columbus.
Penn State Nittany Lions (October 12th, State College, Pennsylvania):
- A tough road environment: Beaver Stadium is another hostile environment for visiting teams. The Penn State faithful create a passionate and intimidating atmosphere that can rattle opposing players.
- A balanced and experienced team: The Nittany Lions are known for their balanced offense and stout defense. They have a talented quarterback, a strong running game, and a veteran defense that can make life difficult for opposing offenses.
- Recent history: The Badgers have had more success against Penn State in recent years, winning two of their last three meetings. However, the Nittany Lions are always a tough opponent, especially at home.
These back-to-back road games will be a major test for the Wisconsin Badgers. If they can navigate this challenging stretch of their schedule with success, it will be a significant boost to their Big Ten title hopes.
The Badgers will need to be at their best to overcome these challenges and come away with victories. These games will be crucial in determining the trajectory of their season and their chances of reaching the College Football Playoff.
Homecoming game vs. Minnesota Golden Gophers
The Wisconsin Badgers’ homecoming game against the Minnesota Golden Gophers is always a highly anticipated event. This year’s matchup, scheduled for October 19th at Camp Randall Stadium, promises to be another exciting chapter in this historic rivalry.
A storied rivalry: The Badgers and Golden Gophers have been battling on the gridiron since 1890, making it one of the oldest rivalries in college football. The two teams have played 129 times, with Wisconsin holding a slight edge in the all-time series record (62-60-7). The rivalry is known for its passionate fan bases and close, competitive games.
Homecoming atmosphere: Homecoming is a special time at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. The campus and surrounding community come together to celebrate the university’s history and traditions. The homecoming game is a central part of this celebration, and it’s always a festive and energetic atmosphere at Camp Randall Stadium.
Recent history: The Badgers have dominated the rivalry in recent years, winning the last seven meetings. However, the Golden Gophers are always a dangerous opponent, especially at home. In 2022, Minnesota upset Wisconsin in Minneapolis, snapping the Badgers’ six-game winning streak in the series.
This year’s homecoming game is sure to be another memorable chapter in this long-standing rivalry. With both teams expected to be competitive in 2024, the stakes will be high when they meet in Madison on October 19th.
The Badgers will be looking to protect their home turf and extend their winning streak against their rivals. A victory over the Golden Gophers would be a major boost to their Big Ten title hopes and would also provide a memorable homecoming experience for the Wisconsin faithful.
Rivalry clash with Iowa Hawkeyes in Iowa City
The Wisconsin Badgers and Iowa Hawkeyes have one of the most intense and storied rivalries in college football. The two teams have met 94 times since 1894, with Wisconsin holding a slight edge in the all-time series record (48-43-2). The rivalry is known for its physical play, passionate fan bases, and memorable moments.
- Trophy game: The winner of the Wisconsin-Iowa game is awarded the Heartland Trophy, a bronze statue of a badger and a hawk locked in combat. The trophy adds an extra layer of excitement to the rivalry and serves as a symbol of dominance for the winning team.
- Home-field advantage: Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City is one of the toughest places to play in college football. The Hawkeyes have a passionate and knowledgeable fan base that creates a loud and intimidating atmosphere for visiting teams.
- Recent history: The Badgers have had the upper hand in the rivalry in recent years, winning four of the last five meetings. However, the Hawkeyes won a thrilling 24-22 game in Madison in 2022, snapping Wisconsin’s three-game winning streak in the series.
- Implications for the Big Ten West: Both Wisconsin and Iowa are members of the Big Ten West Division. The winner of their head-to-head matchup often has a significant impact on the division standings and the race to the Big Ten Championship Game.
This year’s rivalry clash in Iowa City is sure to be another memorable chapter in this long-standing feud. With both teams expected to be competitive in 2024, the stakes will be high when they meet at Kinnick Stadium on November 2nd.
Tough test against Michigan Wolverines in Ann Arbor
The Wisconsin Badgers will face one of their toughest tests of the 2024 season when they travel to Ann Arbor to take on the Michigan Wolverines on November 9th. The Wolverines are consistently one of the top teams in the country, and they will be looking to avenge their loss to Wisconsin in the 2023 Big Ten Championship Game.
- Top-tier opponent: Michigan has established itself as one of the premier programs in college football under head coach Jim Harbaugh. They have a talented roster, led by dynamic playmakers on both sides of the ball.
- Home-field advantage: Michigan Stadium, also known as “The Big House,” is the largest stadium in the United States and one of the most intimidating venues in college football. The Wolverines have a passionate and knowledgeable fan base that creates a loud and electric atmosphere.
- Recent history: Wisconsin and Michigan have played some memorable games in recent years. The Badgers won a thrilling 35-28 overtime game in Ann Arbor in 2021, but the Wolverines got their revenge with a 38-17 victory in the Big Ten Championship Game in 2022.
- Implications for the Big Ten Championship: Both Wisconsin and Michigan are contenders for the Big Ten Championship. The winner of their head-to-head matchup could have a significant impact on the race to Indianapolis.
This year’s clash between the Badgers and Wolverines is sure to be another exciting chapter in this growing rivalry. With both teams expected to be among the best in the country, this game could have major implications for the Big Ten title race and the College Football Playoff.
B1G Championship Game rematch with Purdue Boilermakers
The Wisconsin Badgers and Purdue Boilermakers will meet again in the 2024 Big Ten Championship Game, a rematch of their thrilling encounter in 2023. The Badgers emerged victorious last year, but the Boilermakers are looking for revenge and a chance to claim their first Big Ten title since 2000.
- Rematch of the 2023 Big Ten Championship Game: The Badgers and Boilermakers faced off in a memorable Big Ten Championship Game in 2023, with Wisconsin ultimately winning 34-28. This year’s rematch promises to be just as exciting and competitive.
- High-powered offenses: Both Wisconsin and Purdue have high-powered offenses that can score points in bunches. The Badgers are known for their balanced attack, led by a strong running game and a talented passing attack. The Boilermakers, on the other hand, have one of the most dynamic passing attacks in the country, led by quarterback Aidan O’Connell and a talented group of receivers.
- Strong defenses: Despite their offensive firepower, both teams also have strong defenses that can make life difficult for opposing offenses. The Badgers have a stout front seven and a talented secondary, while the Boilermakers have a disruptive pass rush and a opportunistic secondary.
- Implications for the College Football Playoff: The winner of the Big Ten Championship Game will earn a berth in the College Football Playoff, so the stakes are incredibly high for both teams. A victory would not only give them the conference title but also a chance to compete for a national championship.
This year’s Big Ten Championship Game rematch between the Wisconsin Badgers and Purdue Boilermakers is sure to be one of the most anticipated games of the college football season. With both teams expected to be among the best in the country, this game could have major implications for the College Football Playoff and the race for a national championship.
Potential bowl game appearance
The Wisconsin Badgers have a rich history of bowl game appearances, and they will be looking to continue that tradition in 2024. With a strong schedule and a talented roster, the Badgers have a good chance of earning a berth in one of the prestigious bowl games.
Qualifying for a bowl game: In order to qualify for a bowl game, the Badgers need to finish the regular season with a record of at least 6-6. With a challenging schedule, this will be no easy task, but the Badgers have a history of rising to the occasion.
Possible bowl destinations: If the Badgers are able to qualify for a bowl game, there are several potential destinations that they could be selected for. Some of the most likely options include the Rose Bowl, the Orange Bowl, and the Cotton Bowl. The Badgers have a history of success in all of these bowls, and they would be a welcome addition to any of them.
Benefits of a bowl game appearance: Playing in a bowl game is a great way for the Badgers to cap off a successful season and reward their players for their hard work. It also provides the team with an opportunity to showcase their talents on a national stage and to compete against some of the best teams in the country. Additionally, a bowl game appearance can generate significant revenue for the university and provide a boost to the local economy.
The Badgers will be hoping to earn a berth in a bowl game in 2024 and to continue their tradition of success in the postseason.
A bowl game appearance would be a fitting reward for a successful season and would give the Badgers a chance to showcase their talents on a national stage. It would also be a great way to generate excitement and momentum for the 2025 season.
Camp Randall Stadium hosting key matchups
Camp Randall Stadium, the home of the Wisconsin Badgers, is one of the most iconic venues in college football. With a capacity of over 80,000 and a passionate fan base, Camp Randall is known for its electric atmosphere and its ability to create unforgettable moments.
- Home-field advantage: The Badgers have a significant home-field advantage at Camp Randall Stadium. The crowd noise can be deafening, and the Badgers have a long history of success in front of their home fans.
- Key Big Ten matchups: Camp Randall Stadium will host several key Big Ten matchups in 2024, including games against Ohio State, Penn State, and Iowa. These games will have major implications for the Big Ten West Division race and the Big Ten Championship Game.
- Rivalry games: Camp Randall Stadium is also home to two of the Badgers’ biggest rivalry games: the Minnesota Golden Gophers and the Illinois Fighting Illini. These games are always highly anticipated and always draw a sellout crowd.
- Potential bowl game: If the Badgers are able to qualify for a bowl game in 2024, there is a good chance that it will be played at Camp Randall Stadium. The Badgers have a long history of hosting bowl games, and the atmosphere at Camp Randall is second to none.
Camp Randall Stadium is more than just a football stadium; it’s a place where memories are made and legends are born. The 2024 season promises to bring even more excitement and unforgettable moments to this historic venue.
Newcomers and veterans ready to make an impact
The Wisconsin Badgers will be counting on a mix of talented newcomers and experienced veterans to make an impact in 2024. Here are a few players to watch:
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Newcomers:
- J.J. McCarthy (QB): A highly touted recruit from IMG Academy, McCarthy is expected to compete for the starting quarterback job. He is a talented passer with good mobility.
- MarShawn Lloyd (RB): A transfer from South Carolina, Lloyd is a physical running back who is known for his power and speed.
- CJ Hicks (LB): A four-star recruit from Ohio, Hicks is a versatile linebacker who can play inside or outside. He is known for his athleticism and his ability to make plays all over the field.
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Veterans:
- Graham Mertz (QB): The incumbent starting quarterback, Mertz will be looking to bounce back from a disappointing 2023 season. He has a strong arm and is a good runner, but he needs to improve his accuracy and decision-making.
- Braelon Allen (RB): One of the most dynamic running backs in the country, Allen is a threat to score every time he touches the ball. He is a powerful runner with good speed and agility.
- Nick Herbig (LB): A First Team All-Big Ten selection in 2023, Herbig is one of the best pass rushers in the country. He is also a solid run defender.
These are just a few of the players who are expected to make an impact for the Wisconsin Badgers in 2024. With a strong mix of newcomers and veterans, the Badgers have the potential to be one of the top teams in the Big Ten and compete for a national championship.
High expectations for the upcoming season
The Wisconsin Badgers have high expectations for the 2024 season. After a successful 2023 campaign that saw them win the Big Ten West Division and reach the Big Ten Championship Game, the Badgers are looking to take the next step and compete for a national championship.
- Talented roster: The Badgers return a talented roster in 2024, led by several key players on both sides of the ball. This includes quarterback Graham Mertz, running back Braelon Allen, and linebacker Nick Herbig.
- Favorable schedule: The Badgers have a relatively favorable schedule in 2024, with only two games against ranked opponents in the regular season. This gives them a good chance to finish the regular season with a strong record and earn a high seed in the College Football Playoff.
- Experienced coaching staff: Head coach Paul Chryst is entering his eighth season at Wisconsin, and he has a proven track record of success. He has led the Badgers to three Big Ten West Division titles and two Big Ten Championship Game appearances. His staff is also very experienced, and they have a good track record of developing players.
- Home-field advantage: The Badgers have one of the best home-field advantages in college football. Camp Randall Stadium is a loud and intimidating environment for opposing teams, and the Badgers have a long history of success at home.
All of these factors have led to high expectations for the Wisconsin Badgers in 2024. The Badgers have the talent, the schedule, the coaching staff, and the home-field advantage to make a run at the College Football Playoff and compete for a national championship.
FAQ
Welcome to the Wisconsin Badgers 2024 FAQ section! Here you’ll find answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about the upcoming season.
Question 1: What are the Badgers’ biggest strengths in 2024?
Answer: The Badgers have a number of strengths in 2024, including a talented and experienced roster, a favorable schedule, an experienced coaching staff, and a strong home-field advantage.
Question 2: Who are some of the key players to watch for the Badgers in 2024?
Answer: Some of the key players to watch for the Badgers in 2024 include quarterback Graham Mertz, running back Braelon Allen, linebacker Nick Herbig, and wide receiver Chimere Dike.
Question 3: What are the Badgers’ biggest challenges in 2024?
Answer: The Badgers’ biggest challenges in 2024 include playing a tough schedule, staying healthy, and avoiding complacency.
Question 4: What are the Badgers’ expectations for the 2024 season?
Answer: The Badgers have high expectations for the 2024 season. They are looking to win the Big Ten West Division, compete for the Big Ten Championship, and earn a berth in the College Football Playoff.
Question 5: Where can I find the Badgers’ 2024 schedule?
Answer: The Badgers’ 2024 schedule can be found on the Wisconsin Athletics website.
Question 6: How can I purchase tickets for Badgers games in 2024?
Answer: Tickets for Badgers games in 2024 can be purchased through the Wisconsin Athletics ticket office.
Question 7: What are some fun facts about the Wisconsin Badgers?
Answer: Some fun facts about the Wisconsin Badgers include:
The Badgers have won 13 Big Ten Championships, the most of any team in the conference.
The Badgers have played in the Rose Bowl 18 times, more than any other team in the country.
The Badgers have a winning record against every team in the Big Ten.
We hope this FAQ section has been helpful. For more information about the Wisconsin Badgers, please visit the Wisconsin Athletics website.
In addition to the information provided in the FAQ section, here are a few tips for making the most of your Wisconsin Badgers football experience in 2024:
- Purchase your tickets early. Games at Camp Randall Stadium sell out quickly, so it’s important to purchase your tickets well in advance.
- Arrive early. The atmosphere at Camp Randall Stadium is electric, so it’s a good idea to arrive early to soak it all in.
- Wear your Badger gear. Show your support for the Badgers by wearing your favorite Badger gear to the game.
- Be loud and proud. The Badgers faithful are known for their passion and enthusiasm. Be sure to cheer loud and proud for the Badgers throughout the game.
- Have fun! College football is a great way to spend a day with friends and family. Make sure to enjoy the game and all that Camp Randall Stadium has to offer.
Tips
Looking for ways to make the most of your Wisconsin Badgers football experience in 2024? Here are a few practical tips to help you plan your trip to Madison and enjoy the game:
Tip 1: Purchase your tickets early.
Games at Camp Randall Stadium sell out quickly, so it’s important to purchase your tickets well in advance. You can purchase tickets online through the Wisconsin Athletics website or by calling the ticket office.
Tip 2: Arrive early.
The atmosphere at Camp Randall Stadium is electric, so it’s a good idea to arrive early to soak it all in. Tailgating is a popular activity before Badgers games, so you can also arrive early to enjoy the festivities.
Tip 3: Wear your Badger gear.
Show your support for the Badgers by wearing your favorite Badger gear to the game. You can find Badger gear at the Wisconsin Bookstore, online retailers, or at the stadium on game day.
Tip 4: Be loud and proud.
The Badgers faithful are known for their passion and enthusiasm. Be sure to cheer loud and proud for the Badgers throughout the game. You can also learn the words to the Badgers fight song, “On, Wisconsin,” so you can sing along with the crowd.
Tip 5: Take advantage of all that Camp Randall Stadium has to offer.
In addition to the game itself, Camp Randall Stadium has a number of other attractions that you can enjoy. These include the Badgers Walk of Fame, the Camp Randall Stadium tour, and the Bucky Badger statue. You can also find a variety of food and beverage options at the stadium.
By following these tips, you can make the most of your Wisconsin Badgers football experience in 2024.
With a talented roster, a favorable schedule, and high expectations, the 2024 season is shaping up to be an exciting one for the Wisconsin Badgers. Be sure to mark your calendars and start planning your trip to Madison today!
Conclusion
The 2024 season promises to be an exciting one for the Wisconsin Badgers. With a talented roster, a favorable schedule, and high expectations, the Badgers have all the ingredients necessary to make a run at the College Football Playoff and compete for a national championship.
The Badgers will be led by a number of key players, including quarterback Graham Mertz, running back Braelon Allen, linebacker Nick Herbig, and wide receiver Chimere Dike. These players will be counted on to lead the Badgers to victory in 2024.
The Badgers will also benefit from a favorable schedule in 2024. They have only two games against ranked opponents in the regular season, and they will have the opportunity to play most of their games at home. This gives them a good chance to finish the regular season with a strong record and earn a high seed in the College Football Playoff.
Overall, the Badgers have a lot to be excited about in 2024. They have a talented roster, a favorable schedule, and high expectations. If they can stay healthy and avoid complacency, they have the potential to make a deep run in the College Football Playoff and compete for a national championship.
Here’s to a successful 2024 season for the Wisconsin Badgers!