College Football: Preseason Top 25 Projections

Once again in 2018, the Big Ten West looks like it is Wisconsin’s division to lose. The Badgers are gunning for a third consecutive trip to Indianapolis. But this year looks like the best in Chryst’s tenure in Madison for the Badgers to win not just the division but their first Big Ten title since winning three straight under Bret Bielema between 2010 and 2012.

The offense should be quite solid this season at Wisconsin. Jonathan Taylor was a revelation as a freshman last season, and the running back is one of the best runners coming back in the FBS this season. Along wtih Alex Hornibrook back at quarterback, another year of experience should yield even more offensive consistency for the Badgers. The biggest loss is tight end Troy Fumagalli, a fifth-round pick of the Denver Broncos.

Defensively, the Badgers suffered far more losses. Four of Wisconsin’s starters from last year’s top-three defense were picked in the 2018 NFL Draft. Another three were picked up as undrafted free agents. With only four starters returning, Wisconsin’s doubts like on the side of the ball where they are usually strongest. It will prevent the Badgers from breaking into the top five of the AP Top 25, but they will still begin the year in single digits in the polls.