Western Michigan Broncos vs
Wisconsin BadgersPredictions & Preview

Wisconsin Badgers Favored to Defeat Western Michigan Broncos in Home Opener at Camp Randall Stadium

The Western Michigan Broncos will face the Wisconsin Badgers in a non-conference matchup to kick off the season at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, WI. The Broncos will be aiming to improve upon their 4-8 record from last season, while the Badgers look to build on their winning season and bowl appearance in 2023. The Badgers previously defeated the Broncos in a prior matchup in 2017. Wisconsin is currently favored to win by 23 points according to the betting line. Kickoff is scheduled for 9:00 PM Eastern Time.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Broncos +1050 | Badgers -2500
• Spread: Broncos +23 (-110) | Badgers -23 (-110)
• Total: Over/Under 56.5 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Wisconsin will win straight-up is 96%.

Western Michigan vs Wisconsin Stats

Western Michigan Broncos

The Western Michigan Broncos finished the 2023-24 season with a 4-8 record, their second losing season in a row, and a 3-5 record in the MAC West. Key offensive players returning include QB Haden Wolff, RB Jalen Buckley, and top wideouts. Wolff had an impressive 1,505 passing yards in eight games and completed 65% of his passes. Buckley exceeded 1,000 yards and 10 TDs in his freshman year. The offensive line, led by senior center Jacob Gideon, is considered a strength. The team aims to improve their defense, which ranked sixth worst in the country last season, by adding six defensive transfers. Head coach Lance Tayler plans to focus on running the ball well, utilizing play action, and throwing downfield for explosive plays. No significant injuries are reported for the upcoming game. The team has a power ranking of 86, ranking 90 in offense, 107 in defense, and has a 0-0 record this season.

Wisconsin Badgers Analysis

The Wisconsin Badgers had high expectations for the 2023 season under new head coach Luke Fickell, but finished with a 7-6 record and a loss in the ReliaQuest Bowl to #12 LSU. The team is hoping new QB Tyler Van Dyke can improve their passing game, which ranked 93rd in the country last season. Their defense is seen as a strength, led by top players such as safety Hunter Wohler and cornerback Ricardo Hallman. However, they are facing challenges with injuries, including starting lineman James Thompson Jr. potentially missing the season. The team has a power ranking of 54 and ranks 92nd in offense, scoring an average of 23.46 points per game. Their defense ranks 21st, giving up an average of 20.15 points per game. In their last 3 matchups, Western Michigan has gone 2-0 against Wisconsin.

Wisconsin Badgers Set to Dominate Western Michigan in Home Opener

The Wisconsin Badgers have a proven track record of success against the Broncos, winning four out of their last five matchups, including their latest meeting at the Cotton Bowl in 2017. Meanwhile, the Western Michigan University (WMU) Broncos struggled towards the end of the 2023-2024 season, suffering losses against the spread and getting shut out by the North Illinois Huskies. Wisconsin, on the other hand, finished strong last season with three wins against the spread and a solid performance at home. With WMU's weakened defense and loss of key player Marshawn Kneeland, the Badgers are poised to capitalize on scoring opportunities throughout the game. Additionally, Wisconsin's strong defensive record, holding opponents to an average of 18.9 points per game last year, further supports the prediction of a comfortable victory for the Badgers in their home opener against the Broncos. In conclusion, all signs point to a decisive win for Wisconsin.

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