The Wisconsin Badgers face a pivotal 2026 season with a schedule that could finally end their multi-year bowl drought. But for Iowa fans, one date stands out above the rest: Halloween at Kinnick Stadium.
After enduring the toughest schedule in the nation last year, the Badgers caught a break with a slate that includes four of the Big Ten's lowest-ranked teams. Still, this is a make-or-break year for head coach Luke Fickell, who is banking on Old Dominion transfer Colton Joseph, a dual-threat quarterback, to turn things around.
Iowa Hawkeyes: The Halloween Nightmare
The Badgers' trip to Iowa City on October 31 is ranked as their third-toughest game of the season. Playing at Kinnick Stadium is never easy, but doing so on Halloween adds an extra layer of intensity. This game has all the makings of an instant classic and could easily be Wisconsin's biggest test away from home.
Iowa fans should mark their calendars. The Hawkeyes are projected to finish strong in the Big Ten, and this rivalry matchup could determine the trajectory of both programs.
Notre Dame and USC Lead the Challenge
Unsurprisingly, Notre Dame tops the list as Wisconsin's toughest opponent. The Badgers open the season against the Fighting Irish at Lambeau Field, a game that could be a blowout according to current spreads. Fickell and his staff have had all offseason to prepare, but expectations are low.
USC comes in at No. 2, projected to finish fourth in the Big Ten. The Trojans visit Camp Randall in what promises to be a packed and rowdy atmosphere. If Wisconsin hopes to pull off an upset, the home crowd will need to be at its best.
Key Games for Badgers Fans
Beyond the top matchups, Wisconsin's schedule includes several winnable games that could secure bowl eligibility. The Badgers face Purdue on the road, their easiest Big Ten road game, and host Rutgers during a tough stretch of three road games in four weeks.
Other notable opponents include Penn State, who the Badgers face on the road in late September, and Minnesota in the rivalry game at Madison on November 27. The Golden Gophers are ranked surprisingly low at No. 5, but rivalry games are always unpredictable.
Bottom of the Barrel
The easiest games on Wisconsin's schedule come against non-conference opponents Eastern Michigan and Western Illinois, both of whom went 4-8 last season. The Badgers also face Purdue, predicted to finish last in the Big Ten, and Rutgers, projected at No. 17.
For Iowa fans, the Halloween showdown is the must-watch game of the year. If the Hawkeyes can defend Kinnick, it could be a long night for Wisconsin and a statement win for Iowa.