The Badgers are set for Week 2 as Wisconsin welcomes Pac-12 opponent Washington State to Camp Randall. With kickoff in a number of hours, our three-man crew at BadgersWire put collectively our predictions for the Week 2 conflict.
The Badgers and the Cougars each are available in at 1-0 with victories over FCS opponents. Washington State began sluggish however responded properly to take down Idaho, whereas Wisconsin cruised over Illinois State because the protection pitched a shutout.
Kickoff is about for two:30 PM CT on FOX because the Badgers and Cougars look to maneuver to 2-0 on the younger season. Right here our are employees predictions for Saturday’s matchup:
Wade
Sep 3, 2022; Madison, Wisconsin, USA; Wisconsin Badgers quarterback Graham Mertz (5) celebrates following a landing in the course of the third quarter towards the Illinois State Redbirds at Camp Randall Stadium. Necessary Credit score: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports activities
Though the Washington State Cougars struggled to beat Idaho final week, they’ll present a tougher opponent than Illinois State for Wisconsin in Week 2.
The Badgers ought to have the ability to construct a snug lead, however I wouldn’t be stunned if the Cougars are in a position to get on the board by the tip of the sport. Wisconsin’s protection gave up a number of huge play final week, which could carry over to Saturday towards Washington State.
Rating Prediction: Wisconsin 24, Washington State 7
Dillon
The Wisconsin Badgers (1-0) are coming off a 38-0 victory over FCS Illinois State final week however will see an uptick in competitors in week two.
Washington State options an air raid offense led by FCS switch Cameron Ward, who’s dynamic sufficient to provide the Badgers hassle along with his potential to increase performs.
That mentioned, I believe Wisconsin wears Washington State’s protection down, and if UW can play effectively, they’ll win this sport comfortably.
I’ve a tough time envisioning Jim Leonhard’s protection giving up sufficient factors for Wisconsin to lose this one – and I noticed sufficient out of the offense final week to be ok with their potential to maneuver the ball.
Rating Prediction: Wisconsin 31, Washington State 10
Asher
This can be a matchup that Wisconsin must decelerate and win within the trenches, and if any crew within the nation ought to really feel comfy doing simply that it’s the Badgers.
Cam Ward will present a passing menace that can give this new-look Badger protection issues at occasions, particularly with how the secondary regarded towards Illinois State.
Ultimately, Wisconsin makes use of the house crowd and their run sport to return out on high in a sport that might find yourself too shut for consolation.
Rating Prediction: Wisconsin 27, Washington State 14