The Wisconsin Badgers have some work to do—and the national media is taking notice. USA TODAY's latest 138-team rankings place Luke Fickell's squad at No. 76 after spring practice, a spot that might sting for fans expecting a quicker turnaround.

It's been a tough stretch in Madison. Back-to-back losing seasons are practically unheard of for this program, and while a strong spring showing from Old Dominion transfer quarterback Colton Joseph offers a glimmer of hope, there's still a long road ahead. Fickell has been busy building for the future, assembling an impressive 2027 recruiting class, but those players won't be suiting up anytime soon.

The schedule doesn't do the Badgers any favors. Playing in the Big Ten is always a grind, and this year is no exception. According to Paul Myerberg's rankings, three of the top six teams in the country call the same conference home. Wisconsin won't have to face No. 1 Ohio State, but the season opener at Lambeau Field against Notre Dame—ranked No. 2—is a daunting way to start.

There are plenty of winnable games on the calendar, but after two disastrous seasons, it's fair for the national media to question just how competitive this team can be. For Fickell and the Badgers, the pressure is on to prove the doubters wrong.