Locked On Badgers - Daily Podcast On Wisconsin Badgers Football & Basketball

A united Wisconsin is a reckoning—can new athletic director Shawn Eichhorst bring Badger Nation together? Ryan Herrings spotlights Eichhorst’s strong debut on ESPN Milwaukee, analyzing his vision to make athletics “a bridge for people to connect” and assessing whether his Wisconsin roots fuel genuine excitement or the familiar honeymoon phase. With donor engagement, quick connections to Luke Fickell, and immediate immersion in Badger culture, Eichhorst’s leadership is already making waves. The episode also tackles the Wisconsin Badgers football schedule, scrutinizing whether this year’s lineup is tougher than fans expect. Should offensive line optimism be tempered, and could fr...

MOST IMPORTANT: Wisconsin Badgers football NEEDS these TEN players to SHOW UP this year!! Wisconsin Badgers football faces a defining year—can Colton Joseph’s arrival at quarterback finally transform the offense and elevate the team’s Big Ten status? Ryan Harings spotlights the ten most pivotal Badgers players for the 2026-27 season, spotlighting rising stars like Kevin Haywood and Sebastian Cheeks, while explaining why strong offensive line play and edge rush are critical for Wisconsin’s success. Key breakdowns include Marvin Burks Jr.’s impact at safety, Austin Kweki’s essential role at center, and a deep dive into whether...

BE EXCITED! Three reasons to be EXCITED FOR Wisconsin Football! Happy 4th of July! Photo Credit: Jeff Hanisch Reuters US Sports Picture Archive, Reuters US Sports Picture Service Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. From the openin...

IT MAKES SENSE: Why Wisconsin HIRED Shawn Eichorst AND WHY it COULD WORK! Wisconsin Badgers make a bold move by naming Shawn Eichorst as the new athletic director, sparking debate among fans. With deep ties to Wisconsin and experience at powerhouse Texas, can Eichorst leverage his legal acumen and fundraising background to guide the Badgers through a transformative era in college sports? Concerns linger over his past tenure at Nebraska, but his growth and resilience intrigue supporters eager for stability and progress. Rajeev breaks down the risks and rewards of the Eichorst hire, emphasizing crucial topics like NIL strategy...

Big Ten coaching rankings ignite debate as Curt Cignetti’s meteoric rise at Indiana challenges Ryan Day’s Ohio State dominance. Can Cignetti’s underdog playbook outshine traditional powerhouses if given equal resources? The discussion also spotlights Kyle Whittingham’s consistency, questions Dan Lanning’s performance in pressure games, and evaluates where Jedd Fisch and the Washington Huskies truly fit in the new Big Ten landscape. Washington’s daunting 2026 schedule faces scrutiny—can the Huskies surpass expectations with key matchups against USC, Oregon, Penn State, and Iowa? The conversation breaks down Washington’s roster strengths and weaknesses, Jedd Fisch’s offensive strate...

UPSIDE: Wisconsin Badgers and Greg Gard LAND Baboucarr Ann and Jalen Brow! Unlocking Nolan Winter! Wisconsin Badgers basketball surges on the recruiting trail as Greg Gard lands high-upside prospects Baboucarr Ann and Jalen Brown. Could the addition of these four-star talents finally provide the go-to scorer this roster desperately needs, or is a scoring-by-committee approach the answer for March success? The conversation focused on player development, positional battles, and intriguing dark horses like Austin Rapp and Jackson Ball. One concept discussed was whether Nolan Winter or Eian Elmer can become offensive centerpieces against elite Big Ten defenses. The discussion...

INSIDER! Nick Osen TALKS about the MASSIVE Baboucarr Ann signing! Listener Q/A session! Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. From the opening whistle to the final kick, Let There Be Goals on FanDuel. Visit https://FANDUE...

FACT or FICTION!? Will Greg Gard have a ONE and DONE player? Is Lambeau Field an ADVANTAGE for UW? Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. From the opening whistle to the final kick, Let There Be Goals...

SNUBBED: Cooper Catalano and Mason Posa UNDERRATED Rankings show the program is in 'PROVE IT' mode! Wisconsin Badgers fans are fired up as the 2027 College Football player ratings drop—are stars like Cooper Catalano and Mason Posa being massively underrated? The conversation focused on EA Sports’ controversial rankings, spotlighting Catalano’s surprising 73 overall and dissecting how these ratings reflect national perceptions of the roster. One concept discussed was Wisconsin’s athletic quarterback room, with Colton Joseph and Ryan Hopkins earning high marks for speed and playmaking potential. A key theme that emerged was prove-it mode for the Badgers. The discussi...

Yahzeen Zion JOINS the show! Why was WISCONSIN the right choice for the ELITE 2027 commit! Wisconsin Badgers land elite 2027 defensive prospect Yahzeen Zion, igniting fan excitement for a new era of Badgers football. How does a player with just one varsity football season become one of the most sought-after recruits in the nation? Zion reveals his explosive play style, shares the edge that basketball gave his pass-rush skills, and discusses his rapid rise—highlighted by early offers from college football powerhouses. Host Ryan welcomes Zion to break down his training regimen with former NFLer Coach Ryan, the impact of a...

Big Ten shakes up college football with the new “5 and 5” eligibility rule, setting the stage for a new era—no more endless waivers or awkward redshirt seasons. The Big 10 Squad debates whether this reform can finally bring order to the chaos. Will this bold move eliminate confusion and eight-year seniors, or just spawn fresh controversy? Illinois Fighting Illini’s win total sparks heated predictions as FanDuel sets the mark at 7.5—can Bret Bielema push the Illini from good to great? The crew breaks down Illinois’ manageable 2026 schedule, rivalry games, and the impact of losing key players like Luke Altmyer. The hosts dr...

BREAKTHROUGH: Wisconsin Badgers LAND Baboucarr Ann, Minnesota's Top Star, in MASSIVE Recruiting Win! Wisconsin Badgers basketball lands a massive commitment as four-star wing Baboucarr Ann chooses Greg Gard’s program, marking a transformative moment for the 2027 recruiting class. Does this signal a new era of high-upside talent in Madison and silence doubts about Gard’s recruiting ceiling? The conversation focused on Ann’s elite two-way potential, physicality, and immediate role alongside fellow top targets Jaylen Brown and Jack Thelen. Several points were raised, including Ann’s defensive versatility, slashing ability, and the question surrounding his jump shot’s development. The discus...

STACKED: Wisconsin Badgers’ Defensive Line DEPTH to be TESTED this year! Can Charles Perkins LEAD? Wisconsin Badgers face a pivotal question: Can their revamped defensive line keep rising stars Mason Posa and Cooper Catalano free to dominate? With a crowded competition among Charles Perkins, Hammond Russell, Junior Poyser, and Nolan Vils, this season's defensive front could be deeper than ever. Are new transfers like Jake Anderson and Denigel Cooper ready to make an immediate Big Ten impact, or will experience win out? Ryan and Payne Blazevich break down Wisconsin's defensive depth chart, highlight superlatives, and scrutinize spring standouts. The co...

FOR 5! The NCAA GETS IT RIGHT - could this mean ANOTHER YEAR for Nolan Winter and Eian Elmer! NCAA’s new “five for five” eligibility rule could reshape Wisconsin Badgers’ football and basketball rosters—will Nolan Winter and Eian Elmer stick around for another season? The conversation focused on how abolishing the traditional redshirt strategy gives college athletes five years to play across five seasons, transforming player development and lineup decisions for programs like Wisconsin. A key theme that emerged was the potential for stars like Abu Sama to maximize their impact with eligibility extensions, while the end of injury wai...

RARE TALENT: Wisconsin Badgers’ Yahzeen Zion COMMITMENT Has Brian Smith SEEING Top 100 FUTURE! Wisconsin Badgers football surges on the recruiting trail, landing high-upside defensive standouts Yahzeen Zion and Brody Pfannenstiel. Are these elite prospects the missing pieces to elevate Wisconsin's defense into Big Ten contention? Recruiting analyst Brian Smith spotlights Zion's rare athleticism and versatility, calling him a potential game-changer on the defensive line alongside Fappensteel, a relentless edge presence flipped from Texas Tech. The discussion tackles the impact of NIL deals, Wisconsin’s new approach to talent acquisition, and the challenges of retaining top recruits against heavyweight programs. Plus...

BREAKOUT: Wisconsin Badgers Will UNLEASH Jai’mier Scott, Nick Clayton & Kevin Heywood This Season! Wisconsin Badgers football prepares for a breakout campaign as emerging stars like Jai'mier Scott, Nicholas Clayton, and Jaylon Domingeaux fight for major roles. Can the revamped secondary and explosive playmakers spark a Big Ten resurgence? With Colton Joseph at quarterback and Kevin Haywood solidifying the offensive line, expectations are rising for the Badgers’ next wave of talent. The conversation focused on potential impact players including Abu Sama at running back, Eugene Hilton at wide receiver, and linebacking sensation Jon Jon Kamara—a transfer from Kansas genera...

Big Ten powers gear up for a season of high stakes and sky-high expectations. Oregon’s fans are asking: Is this finally the year Dan Lanning leads the Ducks to a national championship? Ohio State faces questions about the Arthur Smith-led offense and Ryan Day’s fourth-quarter strategy, while USC and Washington both eye playoff runs amidst roster shakeups and the spotlight on Demond Williams’ development. The Big 10 Squad breaks down the top moments from the past decade, celebrate the network’s 10-year anniversary, and debate the biggest 2026 storylines for each program. From Chip Kelly’s bold play-calling and Jack Sawye...

Wisconsin Badgers women’s hockey shatters records with five first-round picks in the PWHL draft, led by Caroline Harvey’s No. 1 overall selection. Can this gold-standard program continue its dominance after so many stars turn pro? Ryan Herrings and Alex Seeman spotlight legacy-defining moments for Harvey, Edwards, Eden, Sims, and Jungles as the Badgers cement their place atop the hockey world. On the men’s side, the Badgers ride the momentum of a near-upset over powerhouse Denver, but face major questions after losing captains Ben Dexheimer, Quinn Finley, and others. Ryan Harings and Alex Seeman assess the impact of roster...

Wisconsin Badgers football locks in a powerhouse 2027 recruiting class, led by a dominant offensive line haul. Could the strength in the trenches signal a new era for the program? Ryan Harings ranks every positional group, spotlighting blue-chip prospects like Cole Reiter, Korz Loken, and Yahzeen Zion. Analysis focuses on top commits at edge and defensive line, the critical addition of running back Kingston Allen, and intriguing upside plays such as Brody Pfannenstiel. The conversation tackles position depth, early contributor candidates, and whether key groups like wide receiver and linebacker are underrated. Get the inside scoop on how Wisconsin is...

Wisconsin Badgers basketball breaks an 11-year drought by landing top-100 in-state recruit Jalen Brown—a 6'4" combo guard from Milwaukee with three-level scoring potential and elite defensive upside. Can Brown's length, athleticism, and playmaking catalyze a more dynamic future for the Badgers' backcourt? Coach Gauthier weighs in on Brown’s fit, the “combo guard” label, and how his game compares to John Blackwell. Ryan and Coach spotlight the addition of Minnesota 7-footer Jack Thelen, discuss the value of developmental prospects in today's NIL-driven era, and examine how new point guard Owen Foxwell could elevate shooters like Nolan Winter and Austin R...

Wisconsin Badgers football locks in a powerhouse 2027 recruiting class, led by a dominant offensive line haul. Could the strength in the trenches signal a new era for the program? Ryan Harings ranks every positional group, spotlighting blue-chip prospects like Cole Reiter, Korz Loken, and Yahzeen Zion. Analysis focuses on top commits at edge and defensive line, the critical addition of running back Kingston Allen, and intriguing upside plays such as Brody Pfannenstiel. The conversation tackles position depth, early contributor candidates, and whether key groups like wide receiver and linebacker are underrated. Get the inside scoop on how Wisconsin is...

Wisconsin Badgers basketball breaks an 11-year drought by landing top-100 in-state recruit Jalen Brown—a 6'4" combo guard from Milwaukee with three-level scoring potential and elite defensive upside. Can Brown's length, athleticism, and playmaking catalyze a more dynamic future for the Badgers' backcourt? Coach Gauthier weighs in on Brown’s fit, the “combo guard” label, and how his game compares to John Blackwell. Ryan and Coach spotlight the addition of Minnesota 7-footer Jack Thelen, discuss the value of developmental prospects in today's NIL-driven era, and examine how new point guard Owen Foxwell could elevate shooters like Nolan Winter and Austin R...

BREAKING! Badgers FLIPBrody Pfannenstiel in MASSIVE commitment from Texas Tech! On Wisconsin! Wisconsin Badgers land a massive recruiting win, flipping elite edge rusher Brody Pfannenstiel from Texas Tech. Is he the next Mason Reiger or even a college-level T.J. Watt? The recruiting department is on a summer hot streak, and Pfannenstiel's explosive, violent play style has fans and analysts buzzing about his impact potential. Host Ryan and guest Justin break down Pfannenstiel’s high-motor film, his versatility as both a defensive end and tight end, and how his athleticism and relentless drive set him apart in the 2025 class. Th...

Wisconsin Badgers legends battle for the top spot—whose individual season truly stands above the rest? From Melvin Gordon’s historic rushing attack to Russell Wilson’s near-perfect quarterback run, the countdown of the Badgers’ top 10 football seasons since 2000 sparks fierce debate and nostalgia. Could Jonathan Taylor’s consistency outrank Monte Ball’s touchdown spree, or does Lee Evans’ electrifying receiving season redefine Wisconsin’s offensive identity? The conversation focused on explosive years from stars like J.J. Watt, Chris Borland, Jim Leonhard, Brian Calhoun, and more, weighing game-changing stats, unforgettable moments, and how these standout campaigns shaped Badger football. Severa...

BOOM! Jack Thelan COMMITS to the Wisconsin Badgers! Great size for Greg Gard! Wisconsin Badgers land a future frontcourt force as 7'1" Jack Thelen commits to Greg Gard’s squad. Can this high-upside big man become the next key piece in Wisconsin’s basketball legacy? Early evaluations praise Thelen advanced post footwork, rebounding instincts, and promising touch around the rim, even as questions linger about his athleticism and development timeline. Jack Thelen breaks down how Thelen fits the Badgers’ classic developmental pipeline, sharing insights on his fit alongside teammates and fellow Minnesota standout Baboucarr Ann. Detailed discussion covers Wisconsin’s strate...

Badgers BBQ! Massive RECRUITING WEEKEND for the Wisconsin Badgers FOOTBALL team! Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Wayfair Patio season is here and these deals won’t last! Head to https://wayfair.com right now to get your outdoor space ready for way less. Wayfair. Every st...

Wisconsin Badgers secure a game-changing commitment as four-star guard Jalen Brown joins Greg Gard’s squad. Could Brown’s dynamic playmaking and two-way upside reshape the Badgers’ backcourt? Ryan Harings and Ngijol Songolo break down Brown’s strengths, fit, and potential as a future Big Ten standout, debating comparisons to John Blackwell, Kobe King, and Bronson Koenig. Scouting insights reveal Brown’s polished court vision, offensive versatility, and defensive prowess, while pinpointing areas—like strength and catch-and-shoot consistency—for further growth. The conversation also dives into recruiting momentum and what Brown’s commitment means for in-state talent retention at Wisconsin. Ryan...

Big Ten powers rally against Texas Tech over Brendan Sorsby’s controversial eligibility fight. As the Red Raiders attempt to play Sorsby despite NCAA regulations, Big Ten schools refuse all non-conference competition, igniting a heated debate about integrity, NIL chaos, and the role of judges in college football. Is this a Texas Tech scandal, an NCAA crisis, or a sign the sport is spinning out of control? The Locked On Big Ten Squad breaks down why Sorsby’s 9,000 betting violations set off a conference-wide backlash, if conferences—not the NCAA—hold the real power, and how coaches like Joey McGuire...

Wisconsin Badgers fans are fired up—can Luke Fickell’s squad really hit nine wins, or even eleven if Notre Dame falls? Hot takes fly as the toughest matchups, quarterback Colton Joseph’s ceiling, and bold running back projections spark debate. Is Iowa still Wisconsin’s biggest stumbling block, or is the door finally open for a statement road win? Greg Gard’s job security, the evolution of Wisconsin basketball’s system, and the new transfer landscape come under the microscope. Which rising stars could redefine expectations, and has the ceiling truly shifted for the Badgers in both football and basketba...

Wisconsin Badgers’ recruiting momentum shows no signs of slowing as James Roberson, a standout safety from Allen, Texas, commits to the class. Is Luke Fickell assembling his most versatile and athletic defensive backfield yet? Ryan Harings and recruiting insider Jon McNamara break down Roberson’s physical style, his fit alongside Dustin Roach and DJ Davis, and how the Badgers’ new focus on length and versatility could redefine their secondary. From flipping blue-chip corner Mekai Williams and landing four-star receiver Jai Jones to major in-state wins and fierce NIL battles, the discussion covers high-upside prospects like Yahzeen Zion, recruiting strategy shifts...

SHOCKING: Brenden Sorsby CANNOT be allowed to play this year for TEXAS TECH! Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Wayfair Patio season is here and these deals won’t last! Head to https://wayfair.com right now to get your outdoor space ready for way less. Wayfair. Every style. Every home. Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. From the opening whistle to the final kick, Let There Be Goals on FanDuel. Vi...

IN-STATE POWER: OL Jake Tabbert ADDS to the Wisconsin Badgers IN-STATE HAUL! Wisconsin Badgers rebuild the wall with in-state lineman Jake Tabbert’s commitment, marking their fifth in-state offensive line addition for the class. Can head coach Eric Mateos’ recruiting surge spark a return to classic Badger power football and set the team up for long-term dominance? The conversation focused on Tabbert’s potential as a developmental center or guard, his movement skills, and the importance of securing local talent. Key themes include the Badgers’ aggressive in-state recruiting—tallying more local signees this cycle than the last three years combined—p...

ON FIRE! Wisconsin Badgers LAND two more COMMITS with Steele Harris and Darin Graham! Wisconsin Badgers football recruiting is on fire as Steele Harris and Darin Graham commit, signaling a surge of momentum for Luke Fickell’s program. Can this class become a program-changer? Ryan Harings and Justin break down why Harris – the big-bodied wide receiver from Great Falls, Montana – and Graham, the athletic edge rusher out of Chicago, stand out as high-upside prospects poised to reshape the Badgers’ roster. Key topics include the rising optimism around Wisconsin’s 2025 class, the recruitment of top defensive lineman Zion, how the staff is s...

BOOM! Yahzeen Zion COMMITS to the WISCONSIN BADGERS! Massive GET for Wisconsin! Wisconsin Badgers score a massive recruiting win as Yahzeen Zion, elite defensive lineman from Arizona, commits to the program—despite offers from LSU, Oklahoma, Penn State, Miami, and USC. Is Luke Fickell setting a new ceiling for Badgers football recruiting? Ryan Harings breaks down why Zion’s size, versatility, and relentless motor make him a potential game-changer. The conversation spotlights Wisconsin’s momentum on the recruiting trail, the growing Arizona pipeline, and standout traits in Zion’s playing style. Key topics include the significance of a five-star-level offer li...

MASSIVE! In-State STAR Jalen Brown COMMITS to GREG GARD and the Wisconsin Badgers! HUGE GET! Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcas...

FLIPPING THE SCRIPT: Wisconsin Badgers LAND Elite Mekhi Williams, Jai Jones Fuels RECRUITING Surge! Wisconsin Badgers shake up college football recruiting by landing top Florida safety Mekai Williams, beating out LSU and Miami for elite defensive talent. Can this headline-grabbing commit spark a new era for Wisconsin under the current staff and NIL changes? Host Ryan Harings and recruiting analyst Brian Smith break down Williams’ NFL-caliber upside, discuss four-star receiver Jai Jones’ potential impact, and spotlight versatile linebacker Nathan Jones as a program sleeper. Analysis also covers defensive line depth with David Hill’s Midwest power, insight into Florida and Ar...

The Big Ten and SEC unite to push back against Congress’s sweeping plan to overhaul college football, setting up a powerful standoff that could reshape the sport’s future. With player compensation, playoff formats, and media rights on the line, can any legislation succeed without college football’s biggest powerhouses on board? The Big 10 Squad dissects the motives behind congressional intervention in NCAA sports, conference politics, and the relentless pursuit of media power. The crew shifts focus to Wisconsin Badgers football, debating whether Luke Fickell’s squad can clear a six-and-a-half win total and what’s at stake for his jo...

BOOM! Royalton Allen COMMITS to the Wisconsin Badgers FOOTBALL TEAM! Badgers momentum CONTINUES! Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast FanDuel Today...

GOOD NEWS? Wisconsin Badgers are trending for BIG-TIME talent in Mekhi Williams! What's NEXT? Wisconsin Badgers surge in recruiting, trending for elite Florida defensive back Mekhi Williams. Can Luke Fickell’s staff close the deal and hold off powerhouse programs like Florida State, Miami, and LSU for the four-star standout? Host Ryan Herrings spotlights the momentum driving Wisconsin’s 2025 class—including key commitments from Jai Jones and Nathan Jones—and breaks down which positions and prospects could shape the Badgers’ future. The episode covers versatile DB targets, the significance of nabbing out-of-state stars, and how recruits like Steel Harris and Kingst...

BOOM! Nathan Jones COMMITS to the Wisconsin Badgers! BIG momentum for the program right now! Wisconsin Badgers land high-upside linebacker Nathan Jones, beating out national programs like Florida State and North Carolina for the Desert Edge (AZ) standout. Is this the steal of the 2027 recruiting cycle? Host Ryan Harings breaks down what makes Jones’ explosive edge play and motor a potential game-changer for the Badgers’ future defense, and compares him to versatile Badger greats like Zack Baun. The episode also spotlights Wisconsin’s surging program momentum, from in-state recruiting lockdowns to major portal additions at key spots. Discussion covers Matt M...