Wisconsin Football Lands in Analyst's Top 15 After Penn State Win
ESPN analyst Greg McElroy placed Wisconsin at No. 15 in his latest top-15 ranking after the Badgers' road upset of Penn State. McElroy pointed to Wisconsin's strong strength of record and tough schedule, with its only loss coming to Notre Dame. The Badgers were left out of the AP Top 25 but are the leading team outside the rankings.
McElroy slots Wisconsin fifteenth, ahead of BYU, Texas Tech, SMU, Tennessee and USC. He emphasizes results and location, citing a road win at Penn State and a lone loss to Notre Dame, his No. 4 team. The Badgers are the top vote-getter outside the AP Top 25.
The article's writer calls No. 15 too high. He credits Wisconsin's defense in Happy Valley and a strong résumé, but flags offensive questions: turnovers, rushing consistency and left tackle play. He says the Badgers deserve AP Top 25 consideration, though not yet a top-15 look.
McElroy's ranking could intensify national discussion around Wisconsin football, affecting fans, players and coaches by raising expectations and scrutiny. It may also influence how AP voters, recruits and media treat the Badgers in coming weeks, though one analyst's list does not determine outcomes. For broader college football audiences, the debate illustrates how résumé-based arguments can shape perceptions of team quality and postseason positioning.