Marcus Freeman speaks about Luke Fickell, gives high praise for Badgers’ defense
- Notre Dame expects Wisconsin to use a physical, disciplined run-first offense built around multiple rushing looks and a mobile quarterback who was the Sun Belt Player of the Year.
- Marcus Freeman expects Wisconsin's defense to prioritize stopping the run behind two strong linebackers, including No. 8 as one of the best players Notre Dame may face this season.
- Wisconsin pairs Sebastian Cheeks' edge pressure with a transfer-heavy secondary, giving Notre Dame a defense Freeman expects to remain aggressive and structurally sound.
- Notre Dame is preparing for possible special-teams wrinkles because Freeman expects Wisconsin to use strong personnel and unusual looks in that phase at Lambeau Field.
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NOTEBOOK: Badgers excited for opportunity to begin season, show progress in ‘closing the gap’
- Wisconsin safety Matt Jung said his experience alongside Marvin Burks gives the Badgers more flexibility to disguise coverages against Notre Dame quarterback CJ Carr.
- Starting quarterback Colton Joseph emphasized Notre Dame's defensive speed and physicality while expressing confidence in Wisconsin's tight-end group as a matchup resource.
- Wisconsin's defense has prioritized frequent communication both before and after the snap as a core requirement against Notre Dame.
- Running back Abu Sama said his growth under Jayden Everett has centered on protection assignments, defensive reads and taking available interior yards rather than automatically bouncing runs outside, skills Wisconsin needs against Notre Dame's frequent man coverage.
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