Badgers' New Hope: Joseph, Line Shine

On April 4th, Wisconsin Badges football is buzzing with hope after three rough seasons under

coach Luke Fickle, marking some of the lowest points in over 30 years.

Now, it's make or break time heading into 2026 with 155 days until they open against

the tough Notre Dame squad at Lambo Field.

The biggest spark is new quarterback Colton Joseph, transferring from Old Dominion with

two years left.

Last season, he ran for 1,554 yards and 24 touchdowns while throwing for 2,624 yards

and 20 more scores.

His mobility and deep ball touch could change everything after years of injuries at the

position.

Spring updates show the offensive line getting a boost from new coach Eric Mateus, who brings

experience from Arkansas, Baylor, and BYU.

He's clicking with the coordinator and fans see real improvement.

Meanwhile, linebackers Mason Posa and Cooper Catalano stepped up big last year as top

tacklers with sacks, force fumbles, and fresh leadership that coach Fickle praised.

Resources are flowing better too, thanks to athletic director commitments on NIL and

transfers.

They landed players everywhere, plus coaches like Mateus and won some portal battles.

That paired with a lighter schedule facing weaker Big 10 teams like Purdue, Maryland,

Rutgers, UCLA, and Michigan State sets up for success beyond.

Just that Notre Dame test.

All signs point to a real turnaround if Joseph clicks in the line holds.

Keep an eye on Madison, the badges my roar back this fall.