College football analyst tabs Wisconsin as Big Ten 'dark horse' for 2026

After two rocky seasons under head coach Luke Fickell, the Wisconsin Badgers are getting some national buzz as a potential surprise contender in the Big Ten this year. CBS Sports analyst Tom Fornelli recently named Wisconsin his 'dark horse' pick for the 2026 season, pointing to a revamped roster, a favorable schedule, and a defense that was among the nation's best last year.

Fornelli made the case on the Cover 3 podcast, saying injuries that derailed previous Wisconsin campaigns should not be overlooked. 'They've been crushed by injuries more so than other programs,' he said. 'Defensively last year, that team was great. They just couldn't score any points because they were down to like their third-string quarterback.'

What changed for Wisconsin this offseason?

The Badgers added talent at nearly every position. The biggest move was landing quarterback Colton Joseph from Old Dominion. Joseph, a dual-threat redshirt junior, could unlock offensive coordinator Jeff Grimes' scheme. Wisconsin also brought in running back Abu Sama from Iowa State, pairing him with returning back Darrion Dupree.

New starters are expected at quarterback, running back, wide receiver, left tackle, center, defensive tackle, edge, cornerback, and safety. The infusion of talent has raised expectations after a 2025 season that saw the Badgers finish 6-6 in the regular season.

Why the schedule favors Wisconsin

Fornelli emphasized the schedule as a key reason for his pick. Wisconsin's toughest games in 2026 are against Notre Dame, Penn State, USC, and Iowa. The Badgers could be favored or competitive in most other matchups, assuming they stay healthy.

Wisconsin's win total is currently set at 6.5 games, but Fornelli believes the team could exceed that significantly. 'I'm telling you, if you look at this team the last few years, they've been crushed by injuries,' he said. 'But they've got Darrion Dupree, they brought in Abu Sama. I think Colton Joseph and his legs add another dimension.'

Injuries have been a persistent problem

Under Fickell, Wisconsin has lost its starting quarterback for at least four games every season. In two of those years, the quarterback was lost for the season. The offensive line and running back rooms have also been hit hard. This year, the Badgers have added depth across the board, hoping to avoid the injury bug that has plagued them.

If the offense can stay healthy, the defense should keep Wisconsin in games. The linebacker corps returns with experience, and new pieces have been added around them.

What this means for Iowa fans

For Iowa Hawkeyes fans, Wisconsin's resurgence could make the annual battle for the Heartland Trophy even more competitive. The Badgers and Hawkeyes meet in 2026, and a resurgent Wisconsin program would add intensity to an already heated rivalry. Iowa fans will be watching closely to see if the Badgers can back up the hype.

Whether Wisconsin delivers on the dark horse prediction remains to be seen, but the pieces are in place for a bounce-back season in Madison.