r/UWBadgersFootball

I'm a huge Badger sports fan and run a sports analytics website. I'm not touting, I'm pouting. My model is predicting the Badgers to have 5 to 7 wins (likely toward the lower end of the range). The offense (QB, RB, O-line) has to be better, right? Right? Are these numbers off base? Finishing 17th out of 18 in the B10 and a coin flip to beat the Gophers...Is it wrong to say that I miss Graham Mertz? Too soon? Someone inject some optimism into this post.

https://preview.redd.it/kkm3h96sigfh1.png?width=1358&format=png&auto=webp&s=36e31052ad2711c255bc4198d947261c65926652

https://preview.redd.it/g278m8cxigfh1.png?width=1316&format=png&auto=webp&s=febb89e7899aefd564872f50dd14a7f689b52e2e

Hi everyone! My name is Ethan Petrik, and I’m the Iowa beat reporter for the Quad-City Times in Davenport, Iowa.

I’m putting together a preseason series called “The Fan Files,” where I interview one passionate fan from each of Iowa’s 2026 opponents to get a better understanding of their program through the eyes of someone who follows the team closely.

The conversation would cover topics like:
• How you became a fan of the Badgers
• Your thoughts on the 2026 season (best-case and worst-case scenarios)
• Biggest strengths, weaknesses, and players to watch
• Expectations for the matchup against Iowa
• Anything else you think opposing fans should know about your team

The interview can be done however is easiest for you—Reddit DMs, email, or another format that works though I will need to confirm your real world identity. I’ll use your responses in a feature for the Quad-City Times.

If you’re interested—or if you know someone who would be a great representative of the fanbase—please leave a comment or send me a DM.

Thanks, and I’m looking forward to learning more about the Badgers from the people who know the program best!

What do we think will be the final record for the Badgers this season? Here I am being optimistic and hoping for a better season. We have an easy schedule this year, which hopefully helps a lot

Sep 6 - vs Notre Dame (Lambeau Field, Green Bay) - Lose

Sep 12 - vs Western Illinois (Home) - Win

Sep 19 - vs Eastern Michigan (Home) - Win

Sep 26 - at Penn State - Lose

Oct 3 - vs Michigan State (Home) - Win

Oct 17 - at UCLA - Win

Oct 24 - vs USC (Home) - Lose

Oct 31 - at Iowa - Lose

Nov 7 - vs Rutgers (Home) - Win

Nov 14 - at Maryland - Win

Nov 21 - at Purdue - Win

Nov 27 - vs Minnesota (Home) - Win

8-4