In Week 6 of the 2025 college football season, the Wisconsin Badgers will travel to Ann Arbor, Michigan, to take on the Michigan Wolverines. The game is scheduled for Saturday, October 4, 2025, at 12:00 PM and will be broadcast on FOX from the renowned Michigan Stadium. This Big Ten showdown promises to be an intriguing contest between two conference rivals. The Wisconsin Badgers enter the game with a 2-2 record, having secured both of their victories at home. On the road, they have struggled, currently standing at 0-1. Their recent performances include a tough 27-10 loss to the Maryland Terrapins and a 38-14 defeat against Alabama, both of which highlight challenges they face away from Camp Randall Stadium. On the other hand, the Michigan Wolverines boast a 3-1 record, including a perfect 2-0 at home. Ranked #20 in both the AP and Coaches Polls, Michigan aims to maintain its strong home performance. Their recent nail-biting victory over Nebraska and a dominant 63-3 win against Central Michigan show their capability to perform under pressure and at home.
Michigan vs Wisconsin At a Glance
- Game Location: Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor, MI
- Game Date & Time: Saturday, October 4, 2025 at 12:00 PM
- Television Coverage: FOX
- Wisconsin’s Current Record: 2-2
- Michigan’s Current Record: 3-1
- Betting Odds: Michigan is favored with a spread of -16.5
Michigan Wolverines Gear Up for Showdown
Offensive Performance
The Michigan Wolverines have demonstrated a solid offensive game, ranking 23rd in rushing yards with a total of 1027 yards this season. Despite their success on the ground, their passing game has lagged, sitting at 111th with 733 yards. This disparity could play a crucial role in their upcoming games.
With 140 points scored so far, Michigan ranks 43rd in the nation, showing potential to put points on the board. However, their 44th rank in first downs suggests they may need to improve their consistency on offense to sustain drives.
Defensive Fortitude
Defensively, Michigan stands strong with a rank of 6th in sacks, tallying 15 this season. Their ability to pressure the quarterback is complemented by their 7th rank in interceptions, securing six picks.
Moreover, their defense ranks 5th in fumbles recovered, emphasizing their knack for forcing turnovers. Allowing 71 points this season, they hold the 41st spot in points against, underlining a sturdy defensive unit.
Recent Game Analysis
The Wolverines’ recent 30-27 victory over Nebraska showcased their ability to win tight games. They outperformed Nebraska in rushing yards, gaining 290 compared to Nebraska’s 43.
In their dominant 63-3 win over Central Michigan, Michigan achieved 390 rushing yards, demonstrating their ground game’s effectiveness. The game against Oklahoma, however, exposed vulnerabilities, especially in their passing defense as they allowed 270 passing yards.
Key Players to Watch
Justice Haynes, Michigan’s standout running back, has amassed 537 rushing yards and six touchdowns, ranking him 6th in the nation for rushing yards. Bryce Underwood, their quarterback, has thrown for 733 yards, showcasing potential for growth in the passing game.
On the defensive side, Michigan will rely heavily on their pass rush and secondary, which have been instrumental in forcing turnovers and applying pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
Team Betting Trends
- SU – As Favorite: 29-1 (96.7%) in the last 30 games
- SU – Home Games: 28-2 (93.3%) in the last 30 games
- O/U – Home Games: 7-0 (100.0%) in the last 7 games
- ATS – After Loss: 4-0 (100.0%) in the last 4 games
- O/U – As Favorite: 5-0 (100.0%) in the last 5 games
Wisconsin’s Tough Road Ahead Against Michigan Wolverines
Offensive Challenges
The Wisconsin Badgers have struggled offensively this season, ranking 78th in points for with a total of 83. Their passing game is lagging, sitting at 96th with 823 yards. Additionally, their rushing attack ranks 106th with 514 yards, indicating areas in need of improvement.
In their recent games, the Badgers have faced difficulties moving the ball, as evident in their 27-10 loss to Maryland where they managed only 84 rushing yards. This offensive inconsistency has been a theme, with their passing game failing to reach significant yardage against stronger defenses.
Defensive Standouts
Defensively, Wisconsin has been more effective, ranking 45th in points against with 75. Their pass rush has been a strong point, with their 10 sacks placing them 11th in the nation. The secondary has also shown promise, ranking 4th in interceptions with three.
Despite the defensive prowess, the Badgers have struggled to recover fumbles, ranking 7th with none recovered so far this season. This could be an area for improvement as they prepare to face the Wolverines’ offense.
Key Players to Watch
Quarterback Danny O’Neil is a key player for the Badgers, having thrown for 640 yards and five touchdowns. His ability to manage the game and limit interceptions will be crucial against Michigan. Running back Dilin Jones leads the rushing attack with 154 yards and one touchdown, needing to find gaps against a tough Wolverines defense.
Wide receiver Vinny Anthony II is O’Neil’s primary target, with 161 receiving yards and one touchdown this season. Tight end Lance Mason also plays a significant role in the passing game, contributing 177 yards and two touchdowns.
Injury Concerns
The Badgers are dealing with several injuries, notably to QB Billy Edwards Jr., who is questionable with a knee injury. Offensive linemen Jake Renfro and Barrett Nelson are also questionable, potentially impacting their protection schemes.
Defensive line depth is a concern with Charles Perkins and Torin Pettaway both questionable. Safety Preston Zachman’s status is uncertain, which could impact their secondary against Michigan’s passing game.
Wisconsin Betting Trends
- SU – As Favorite: Last 9 Games → 8-1 (88.9%)
- O/U – Away Games: Last 3 Games → 3-0 (100.0%)
- SU – Totals ≥ 50: Last 11 Games → 8-3 (72.7%)
- SU – Home Games: Last 28 Games → 17-11 (60.7%)
- SU – After Loss: Last 24 Games → 14-10 (58.3%)
As the Badgers prepare to take on the Wolverines, they are 16.5-point underdogs with a total set at 42.5. Their ability to cover the spread may hinge on addressing offensive shortcomings while maintaining defensive strength.
Michigan vs Wisconsin Prediction: Over 42.5
Michigan’s offense has been productive, scoring 140 points in their first four games, ranking 43rd nationally. Meanwhile, Wisconsin’s defense has allowed 75 points this season. This combination suggests the potential for a high-scoring game.
Wisconsin’s offensive struggles this season, particularly on the road, may be mitigated by Michigan’s defense, which has given up 71 points. The Wolverines have shown a trend of going over the total in their last few home games, pointing to a favorable outcome for the over.
Historically, games between these two teams tend to reach higher totals. Considering Michigan’s recent performance and trends, an over bet on the total of 42.5 appears to be a wise choice.
Projected score reflects the potential for both teams to score effectively, resulting in a Michigan victory with a score of 31-17, comfortably going over the total.
- Michigan vs Wisconsin Prediction: Over 42.5
- Michigan vs Wisconsin Score: Michigan 31 – Wisconsin 17
