David Stluka/Wisconsin Athletics
Wisconsin returns to Camp Randall this Saturday for its first Big Ten test of 2025, welcoming the undefeated Maryland Terrapins for an 11 a.m. kickoff on NBC. The Badgers (2-1) are looking to bounce back from a tough loss at Alabama, while Maryland (3-0) arrives riding early-season momentum.
This matchup has been one-sided historically — Wisconsin is 4-0 all-time against Maryland, with an average margin of victory of more than 22 points. In three meetings at Camp Randall, the Terps have never scored more than 13. But this is a new season, and both programs have reasons to believe they can make noise in the Big Ten.
Wisconsin’s Outlook
The Badgers’ defense has been the steadying force. Through three games, Wisconsin is allowing just 46.3 rushing yards per contest, second-best in the Big Ten. The front seven has given up only three runs longer than 10 yards all season. On third down, opponents are just 7-for-30 (23%), a mark that ranks 11th nationally.
Offensively, Jeff Grimes’ first-year system is starting to show flashes. Transfer quarterback Danny O’Neil delivered a sharp debut against Middle Tennessee, and wideouts Vinny Anthony II and Jayden Ballard have stretched defenses with explosive plays. Anthony has been the definition of versatile — scoring via reception, rush, and kick return already this fall. Ballard has hauled in touchdowns of 41 and 58 yards in back-to-back weeks.
The run game remains a focal point. Redshirt freshman Dilin Jones and sophomore Darrion Dupree headline the backfield, supported by an offensive line that has allowed just 13 sacks all of last season and continues to be one of the Big Ten’s most experienced units.
Maryland’s Outlook
Mike Locksley’s team is 3-0 and looking balanced. The Terps rank seventh in the conference in passing offense (266.0 ypg) while holding opponents to just 11.0 points per game, eighth-best in the Big Ten. Their defense has produced pressure, averaging 3.3 sacks per game, and they enter the weekend with one of the nation’s best turnover margins (+2.0).
Wisconsin fans will recognize a familiar face under center. Billy Edwards Jr., who transferred from Maryland after starting 11 games last year, is working his way back from injury but could play a role against his old teammates. His replacement, O’Neil, has proven he can manage the offense effectively if called upon.
Key Matchups
- Wisconsin’s run defense vs. Maryland’s ground game: The Badgers are elite at shutting down the run. Forcing the Terps to be one-dimensional could swing the game.
- Wisconsin WRs vs. Maryland secondary: Anthony and Ballard provide big-play ability, but Maryland ranks top-20 nationally in pass efficiency defense.
- Turnovers: Wisconsin has struggled here early (-0.7 margin), while Maryland thrives (+2.0). This could be decisive.
The Bottom Line
Wisconsin has dominated this series, and Luke Fickell’s team is built to control the line of scrimmage. But Maryland’s defensive improvement and opportunistic play make this one more dangerous than past meetings. If the Badgers clean up mistakes and establish balance on offense, they have the formula to start Big Ten play 1-0.
About the Author
Dalton Tinklenberg is the Founder and Media Director of The Scouting Depot, where he leads comprehensive coverage of college and professional football. He is an active member of some of the most respected organizations in sports journalism, including the Football Writers Association of America (FWAA), Pro Football Writers of America (PFWA), Maxwell Football Club, Online News Association (ONA), National Football Foundation (NFF), and the Associated Press Sports Editors (APSE).
Before launching The Scouting Depot, Dalton worked with Blue HQ Media, where he covered major sporting events such as the Indianapolis 500, the College Football Playoff, and the Pro Football Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony.
Through his professional affiliations and on-the-ground experience, Dalton combines deep knowledge of the game with recognized standards of storytelling, editorial excellence, and authenticity in sports coverage.
