When the Notre Dame Fighting Irish take the field in Week 1 of the 2026 season, they'll be looking to shake off the sting of missing last year's playoffs. But standing in their way is a Wisconsin Badgers team that's hungry to turn around two rough seasons—and according to CBS Sports' Brad Crawford, the Badgers are one of five teams with a real shot at pulling off the upset.
Let's be clear: Notre Dame isn't an untouchable powerhouse, but beating them at Lambeau Field would still require something close to a miracle for Wisconsin fans. Crawford puts it bluntly: "Luke Fickell still lacks a signature win during a disappointing tenure at Wisconsin, but he will have the entire summer to prepare for the Irish."
The stakes are high on both sides. Crawford notes that Notre Dame stumbled in last season's opener at Miami after reaching the national championship game the year before. "Another sluggish start would be a major blow to Freeman and his staff, given the praise the program received this offseason."
Come Sunday, September 6, the Badgers will lean on discipline, weather, physicality, and a raucous Lambeau Field crowd—factors that helped them topple No. 5 LSU a decade ago. Wisconsin ranks fourth among five teams with the best chances to knock off Notre Dame, trailing only SMU, BYU, and Miami.
For fans looking to gear up for this potential upset, remember: it's not just about the X's and O's—it's about having the right gear to weather the elements and show your pride. Whether you're tailgating at Lambeau or watching from home, make sure your wardrobe is ready for the big moment.
