Wisconsin soccer is again! In a number of brief hours, the Badgers will open their season at Camp Randall Stadium because the Illinois State Redbirds come to city.

A brand new-look Badger protection, a fluid backup quarterback scenario, and Graham Mertz in yr three take heart stage as Wisconsin appears to be like to get off to a successful begin in 2022.

Every week of the Wisconsin season, our group at BadgersWire gives you our rating predictions with a little bit of reasoning as to why. This week, every of our three writers have been unsurprisingly on the identical web page. Here’s a take a look at our rating predictions:

Dillon’s Prediction

Nov 20, 2021; Madison, Wisconsin, USA; Wisconsin Badgers quarterback Graham Mertz (5) reacts following a landing throughout the first quarter in opposition to the Nebraska Cornhuskers at Camp Randall Stadium. Obligatory Credit score: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports activities

Not solely are the Redbirds ushering in a brand new offensive scheme in 2022, however their first likelihood to indicate it off comes in opposition to Jim Leonhard’s protection – not precisely splendid.

Illinois State additionally options an undersized defensive position that Wisconsin’s mauling run blockers will inevitably put on down over 4 quarters, resulting in gaping holes that any operating again may discover daylight operating behind.

I don’t suppose this sport will probably be all that shut, and realistically, it shouldn’t be. I count on a dominant dashing efficiency and hope to see a reliable and environment friendly passing assault in opposition to a lesser FCS program.

Prediction: Wisconsin 45, Illinois State 3

Wade’s Prediction

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – DECEMBER 30: Working again Braelon Allen #0 of the Wisconsin Badgers warms up earlier than a sport in opposition to the Arizona State Solar Devils within the SRS Distribution Las Vegas Bowl at Allegiant Stadium on December 30, 2021 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Badgers defeated the Solar Devils 20-13. (Picture by David Becker/Getty Photos)

The Badgers will open up their season with a victory in opposition to an FCS opponent that struggled within the Missouri Valley Convention in 2021.

Illinois State could get on the board late, however Wisconsin will probably be in charge of this sport from begin to end.

Prediction: Wisconsin 34, Illinois State 7

Asher’s Prediction

Jul 27, 2022; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Wisconsin Badgers head coach Paul Chryst talks to the media throughout Massive 10 soccer media days at Lucas Oil Stadium. Obligatory Credit score: Robert Goddin-USA TODAY Sports activities

As a clever man named Paul Chryst as soon as mentioned, “there’s 12 video games on the schedule.”

I don’t count on Wisconsin to miss anyone, and the Badgers ought to begin quick and livid in opposition to Illinois State. Although dropping the sport isn’t within the playing cards, there are a variety of questions the Badgers can reply about their new protection, backup quarterback scenario, and extra.

I count on the operating sport to do the heavy lifting in a cushty win.

Prediction: Wisconsin 41, Illinois State 3