Week 1 is finally upon us, as the Wisconsin Badgers are taking on the Miami (OH) Redhawks on Thursday, with kickoff slated for 8:00 p.m. at Camp Randall Stadium.
The Badgers are coming off a disappointing 5-7 campaign that saw them miss a bowl game for the first time in over 20 years, while the Redhawks are coming off a 9-5 season that saw them get to the MAC Championship.
However, both teams went through significant turnover this offseason, with Wisconsin changing its offensive and defensive schemes, while Miami (OH) has a completely new roster on offense.
Currently, FanDuel Sportsbook has the Badgers as 17.5-point favorites, with the over/under at 39.5 points. Let’s get into some fun predictions for the game.
Prop Predictions
Prop 1: Dilin Jones O 19.5 yards longest rush
Miami (OH) was one of the better run defenses in the country last season, but they’re seeing a good amount of turnover on that side of the ball, and facing a step up in competition.
Dilin Jones was named the starting running back on Wisconsin’s Week 1 depth chart, and his talent has been oozing all offseason. I expect the Badgers to get at least one major explosive on the ground, where they’re going to look to pound the ball, and Jones to be the beneficiary.
I was tempted to take him to score a touchdown, but Wisconsin does have a couple of backs in the room, and the line was much higher at -230 odds. So, we’ll go with Jones to get a 20+ yard run.
Prop 2: O 39.5 total points
I’ve been back and forth here this week between taking Wisconsin on the spread or the total points, but I think these two teams will ultimately clear the latter.
Miami (OH) is experimenting with a brand new offense, led by quarterback Daequan Finn, who has never been an established passer. But, Wisconsin may have trouble with the quarterback runs that could lead Miami (OH) into scoring position a couple of times.
On the flip side, I think the Badgers will be able to run the ball well enough to open up the passing game. My final score prediction will be below, but I see the total being at least 40 points on Thursday evening.
Score Predictions
Rohan: Score predictions are always hard for season openers, and the biggest question I have is the red zone. Wisconsin struggled considerably on offense there in 2024, but a shotgun-heavy offense makes it harder to succeed in that area.
I see the Badgers dealing with some adversity in Miami (OH) territory, resulting in a few field goal drives, but still putting enough points for a comfortable victory.
Prediction: Wisconsin 27, Miami (OH) 13.
Scary: While season openers are always a bit tricky to navigate as far as predictions, this one feels tougher than normal for the Badgers. So many new faces at key positions–QB and OC chief amongst them–invite a wider range of potential outcomes.
If Grimes’ system hits the ground running (literally and figuratively), it’s hard to fathom the offense not making a significant jump from 2024. And facing a MAC team in the first test should feel comfortable. But Miami won’t be some compliant tomato can. They’re a solid, well-coached team that won nine games last season and brought in a MAC player of the year candidate in QB Dequan Finn, who might give a revamped Wisconsin defense fits.
If Billy Edwards Jr. comes out and shows that he’s the upgrade the offense needed, and Tressel’s defense makes the expected jump, especially along the line, Wisconsin will win.. But I see a bit of an up-and-down contest, where we’ll see signs of their upside in moments and some bumps in others.
On the back of a key turnover and some timely runs, Wisconsin will pull away in a tight game.
Prediction: Wisconsin 27, Miami (OH) 17.
Michael: Wisconsin comes into this game winning both of its season openers under head coach Luke Fickell. The Miami (OH) Redhawks had a successful 2024 campaign, ultimately losing to Ohio in the MAC Championship. Wisconsin has a difficult schedule that will be tough all season long, but they have enough talent to win this game comfortably.
Prediction: Wisconsin 35, Miami (OH) 10
Ritvik: Wisconsin opens up its season with a favorable matchup against Miami (OH), where the ground game should really be the focal point. The Badgers should be able to get a strong rush attack going to open up the middle of the field, where returning receivers Trech and Vinny Anthony can really succeed.
Offensive Coordinator Jeff Grimes’ pro-style, run-first attack will feature the trio of Dilin Jones, Darrion Dupree, and Cade Yacamelli, controlling the line of scrimmage and forcing Miami to overcommit defensively. That pressure will open the field for Vinny Anthony’s vertical speed and Trech Kekahuna’s ability to get open, getting balance through the air.
Supported by Wisconsin’s historical dominance in home openers and the 17.5-point spread, all indicators point to a decisive statement win.
Prediction: Wisconsin 38, Miami (OH) 10.