5 college football programs that will make surprise playoff push in 2022

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LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – DECEMBER 30: Running back Braelon Allen #0 of the Wisconsin Badgers runs with the ball against the Arizona State Sun Devils during the SRS Distribution Las Vegas Bowl at Allegiant Stadium on December 30, 2021 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Badgers defeated the Sun Devils 20-13. (Photo by David Becker/Getty Images) /

2. Wisconsin Badgers (2021 record: 9-4)

This one might come as a bit of a surprise, but Wisconsin looked like one of the most improved teams at the end of the 2021 season after a horrid start.

Wisconsin looked like a massive disappointment early in the year thanks to an anemic offense, but things turned around midway through the year. After a 1-3 start which concluded with a blowout home loss to Michigan, the Badgers went 8-1 in the final nine games to finish 9-4 with a bowl win over Arizona State. Although they didn’t win the Big Ten West again, they did create a solid foundation for the 2022 season.

Graham Mertz may not be the long-term answer at quarterback and I could see Paul Chryst look to the portal. He was in the running for Caleb Williams before he picked USC and I wouldn’t be shocked if he pursued Arizona State transfer Jayden Daniels. If he’s able to land Daniels, Wisconsin should be the clear favorite to win the West.

Either way, I think this team competes for a Big Ten title thanks to a strong run game led by breakout star Braelon Allen and an elite defense.

I wouldn’t be shocked with a multi-win improvement from the Badgers and a playoff push in 2022.

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