Badgers back in the Top 25 as they prepare to face an Iowa team that has dominated them lately

Wisconsin is back in the AP Top 25 for the first time since 2023 after beating then-No. 16 Southern California 24-7 in a standout win under coach Luke Fickell. The 25th-ranked Badgers (5-2, 3-1 Big Ten) now face Iowa on Saturday in a rivalry game that has not gone their way lately— the Hawkeyes have won the last four meetings by a combined 118-26. Fickell said the program needs a lot to change that history and highlighted the Heartland Trophy. Wisconsin has tightened defense, allowing 4.14 yards per play and blocking five punts or kicks, while its offense remains a work in progress.