CBS Predicts Hawkeyes Will Beat Badgers for Third Straight Year
CBS Sports released its game-by-game predictions for every Big Ten football program this week, and the national outlet expects Iowa to continue its recent dominance over Wisconsin. Brad Crawford projects the Badgers at 7-5 overall and 5-4 in conference play, with a loss to the Hawkeyes highlighting a brutal three-game midseason stretch. For Iowa fans, the pick reinforces what the scoreboard has already made clear: the Heartland Trophy belongs in Iowa City for now.
What Did CBS Sports Predict for the Wisconsin Badgers?
Crawford pegged Wisconsin for a respectable but uninspiring 7-5 record, noting that the Badgers have dealt with roster turnover and inconsistent offensive production. He wrote that Wisconsin still has the physical identity to grind out wins in the Big Ten, though critics argue that identity has been missing for several seasons.
The national writer predicted losses against Notre Dame, Penn State, UCLA, USC, and Iowa. He projected wins over Western Illinois, Eastern Michigan, Michigan State, Rutgers, Maryland, Purdue, and Minnesota.
Why CBS Picked Iowa Over Wisconsin
Crawford did not provide detailed rationale for each individual game, but the Iowa pick speaks for itself. The Hawkeyes have absolutely dismantled Wisconsin two years in a row, turning what was once a competitive border rivalry into a one-sided affair. The source article acknowledged that Wisconsin's inability to compete against Iowa is arguably the biggest albatross around the Badger program's neck right now.
For Iowa, the matchup falls during what could be Wisconsin's toughest three-game stretch of the season: at UCLA, versus USC, and at Iowa. The source noted that it would not be shocking to see the Badgers drop all three, but also acknowledged that winning two or even all three is within the realm of possibility.
How Does Wisconsin's Schedule Shape Up?
The Badgers open the season against Notre Dame at Lambeau Field, where they will be multiple-touchdown underdogs against a Fighting Irish team led by quarterback CJ Carr. Crawford predicts a season-opening loss, though the Green Bay crowd could give Wisconsin a puncher's chance.
Buy games against Western Illinois and Eastern Michigan should provide easy wins, but the Big Ten slate is unforgiving. Road trips to Penn State, UCLA, and Iowa loom large. Home matchups against USC, Michigan State, Rutgers, and Minnesota could swing the season either direction.
Winnable Games for the Badgers
Crawford sees Michigan State, Rutgers, Maryland, and Purdue as likely Wisconsin victories. Pat Fitzgerald is still building at Michigan State, and Purdue is widely expected to finish at the bottom of the Big Ten. Rutgers has a standout tailback in Antwan Raymond but lacks depth, and Maryland returns true freshman quarterback Malik Washington, who shredded Wisconsin last fall but plays on a roster with significant holes.
Toss-Up Territory
The season finale against Minnesota is a true toss-up, according to the source. The Badgers have not held Paul Bunyan's Axe in over two years, and the quarterback battle between Minnesota's Colton Joseph and Drake Lindsey could make for a fireworks show in late November.
Can Iowa Keep the Streak Alive in 2026?
All signs point to yes. Wisconsin has shown no ability to slow down the Hawkeyes in recent meetings, and the 2026 game gives Iowa the home-field advantage at Kinnick Stadium. Until Wisconsin proves it can put up a fight against Iowa's physical style of play, national analysts will keep picking the Hawkeyes. For Iowa fans, that is exactly how they like it.
What is Iowa's Recent Record Against Wisconsin?
Iowa has defeated Wisconsin two years in a row, with both victories coming in decisive fashion. The Hawkeyes have outscored the Badgers by a wide margin during that stretch, reestablishing control of the rivalry.
Where Does Wisconsin Play Iowa in 2026?
The 2026 matchup is scheduled for Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, giving the Hawkeyes a significant home-field advantage in front of one of the most hostile crowds in the Big Ten.
What is Wisconsin's Expected Record in 2026?
CBS Sports projects the Badgers to finish 7-5 overall and 5-4 in Big Ten play, which would likely land them in a mid-tier bowl game for another season.