The Realistic Outlook: Wisconsin Football and the Luke Fickell Era

What are realistic expectations during the Luke Fickell era?

Madison, Wis. -- Wisconsin football has long been a force to be reckoned with in the Big Ten Conference. The Badgers have also been one of the most consistent programs across college football for the last three decades -- until recently, that is. 

Dating back to 2014, UW has accumulated the most wins of any program that hasn't made the College Football Playoffs. After four 10+ win seasons in five years, the Badgers peaked under Paul Chryst and began a downward spiral that forced Chris McIntosh to shake things up.  

After three straight years of failing to win the Big Ten West, UW made a splash hire -- bringing in former Cincinnati head coach Luke Fickell. 

Fickell compiled a 57-18 overall record in six seasons with the Bearcats and won two AAC Championships (2020, 2021). He also became the first non-Power 5 coach to lead his program to the College Football Playoffs in 2021 -- so his resume is nothing to shake a stick at. 

"My objective is not to change that [Wisconsin's identity]," Fickell told UW reporters. "My objective is to try and find ways to grow it and enhance it."

Hiring Fickell has provided renewed hope and optimism for the Wisconsin football program -- maybe even too much.

I've heard more people than I care to admit talk about Wisconsin's chances of winning a national championship during Fickell's tenure. And while that's all well and good, it is important to approach these aspirations with a realistic perspective. 

While Fickell has already brought several positive changes to the team, expecting an immediate national championship under his leadership will likely leave you brokenhearted. 

This article will explore why such high expectations for Wisconsin football may be premature.

There’s Going to Be a Transition Period

Whenever a new coach takes over a program, there is a transition period as they implement their systems (ground and pound to air raid) and philosophies while recruiting players that better fit their vision.