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Wisconsin Faces Iowa in Key Big Ten Rivalry Matchup

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Wisconsin Iowa Football Rivalry

MADISON, Wisconsin — The Wisconsin Badgers will host the Iowa Hawkeyes at Camp Randall Stadium on Saturday, with crucial implications for both teams.

The Badgers are aiming for their first Power Four victory of the season and their first win over Iowa since 2021. After suffering a heavy 42-10 defeat to Iowa last year, they are motivated to come out strong in this matchup.

Wisconsin, currently holding a 2-3 record, has struggled in October, as the schedule intensifies with conference play. Following three consecutive losses to ranked opponents — Alabama, Maryland, and Michigan — the Badgers are determined to turn things around.

“This is a pivotal moment for us,” said Wisconsin head coach Luke Fickell. “We know what’s at stake, and we’re ready to compete fiercely on our home turf.”

The Hawkeyes, at 3-2 overall and 1-1 in the Big Ten, are also eager to improve their conference record after losing to Indiana two weeks ago. With a match against ranked Penn State upcoming, Iowa can’t afford another loss.

Kickoff is set for 6 p.m. Saturday on Fox Sports 1, and Iowa enters the game as a 3-point favorite, according to BetMGM.

Wisconsin leads the all-time series against Iowa 49-47-2, although the Hawkeyes have claimed four victories in the last five meetings, and they currently hold the Heartland Trophy, having won it 10 times compared to the Badgers’ nine wins since the trophy’s introduction in 2004.

Wisconsin’s offensive lineup is uncertain as Billy Edwards Jr., their starting quarterback, continues to recover from an injury. Three quarterbacks may see action, including Danny O’Neil and Hunter Simmons, if Edwards cannot play.

Defensively, Wisconsin boasts edge rusher Mason Reiger, who leads the team with two sacks, and linebacker Christian Alliegro, who leads the squad with 30 tackles.

Iowa looks to build on their success as key players return from injury. This matchup will be pivotal for both teams in determining their trajectories in the Big Ten.

“We’re ready for this challenge,” said Iowa quarterback Mark Gronowski. “Wisconsin always brings its best game, and we need to match that intensity.”