Wisconsin Badgers football is exceeding expectations in 2026, and ESPN has taken notice.

ESPN's Bill Connelly named the Badgers the fourth-biggest overachiever in college football this season, recognizing the team's progress after a disappointing 4-8 campaign in 2025.

Wisconsin improved to 5-2 overall, and 3-1 in Big Ten play Saturday with a dominant 24-7 victory over No. 15 USC. The Badgers' defense stole the show, holding the Trojans to just seven points while recording five sacks and forcing two interceptions.

The performance marked a significant response after Wisconsin's 17-7 loss to UCLA the previous week. The Badgers bounced back against a ranked conference opponent, demonstrating the defensive potential that has helped fuel their strong start.

Under head coach Luke Fickell, Wisconsin entered the season looking to rebound from consecutive disappointing campaigns. The team's early results have provided reason for optimism as it looks to return to bowl eligibility and establish itself as a more competitive Big Ten program.

With a 5-2 record and a statement win over USC, Wisconsin has already made meaningful progress this season. The challenge now is sustaining that momentum through the remainder of the conference schedule, which begins with a Halloween showdown at No. 24 Iowa.