Wisconsin’s Collapse at Maryland Raises Pressure on Fickell

Wisconsin appeared in control early, then retook the lead in the fourth quarter. Maryland answered with a 39-yard catch-and-run touchdown and sealed the win by forcing a strip-sack of Badgers quarterback Ryan Hopkins, turning the game into another damaging loss for Fickell’s team.

The defeat came against a Maryland team led by an interim coach and playing a backup quarterback. Maryland’s defense recorded four sacks and six tackles for loss, as Wisconsin’s offensive line struggled to protect Hopkins and open running lanes.

The Badgers’ offense also struggled through the air. It was the fourth game this season in which Wisconsin threw for fewer than 100 yards. Hopkins had a difficult outing, while the defense gave up 21 completions on 23 attempts to Maryland’s backup quarterback.

The loss has renewed questions about Fickell’s future. Wisconsin is set to play in a bowl game, and its record is expected to improve on last season’s, but the team’s latest performance has prompted criticism that the gains have not reflected meaningful progress.

Offensive line injuries, including the loss of starting center Austin Kawecki and left tackle Kevin Heywood, have added to the team’s problems. Criticism has also focused on coordinator Jeff Grimes’ play-calling, including a handoff on third-and-12 in the red zone and a quarterback draw on a third-and-long before halftime.

Wisconsin athletic director Shawn Eichorst faces a decision about the program’s direction. The commentary urges him to consider New Mexico coach Jason Eck and Wake Forest coach Jake Dickert, both described as Wisconsin natives leading turnarounds at their schools.