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Middle Tennessee vs Wisconsin Picks and Predictions — September 6, 2025
The Wisconsin Badgers are expected to lean on sophomore quarterback Danny O’Neil when they host the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders in a nonconference clash Saturday at Camp Randall Stadium. Wisconsin lost starter Billy Edwards Jr. to injury in Week 1, but still managed a 17-0 shutout win over Miami (Ohio).
Meanwhile, Middle Tennessee stumbled badly in its opener, dropping a 34-14 contest to Austin Peay for its first FCS loss since 2012.
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Wisconsin Can Win If…
The Badgers’ defense was suffocating in Week 1, holding Miami (Ohio) to just 117 yards of total offense, including only 34 on the ground. They also forced an 0-for-9 third-down showing from the RedHawks.
Danny O’Neil filled in admirably for Edwards, completing 12 of 19 passes for 120 yards and a touchdown while also rushing for a score. His dual-threat ability gives Wisconsin another dimension if he can settle in with first-team reps this week.
“While he was prepared, he also probably recognized some areas where, ‘OK, I’ve got to do a better job,’” head coach Luke Fickell said of O’Neil.
If O’Neil limits mistakes, Wisconsin’s defense and ground game can control this matchup.
Middle Tennessee Can Win If…
The Blue Raiders need to rebound quickly after being dominated by Austin Peay. Their offense sputtered with just 153 yards, including 44 rushing yards on 22 carries. Quarterback Nicholas Vattiato finished with two touchdowns but just 104 yards on 36 attempts.
Equally concerning, Middle Tennessee failed to convert a single third down (0-for-12) and struggled to sustain drives.
“This team has had to get back in the film room and look at ourselves … see who we are,” head coach Derek Mason said.
If the Blue Raiders can clean up execution and avoid falling behind early, they’ll have a chance to compete.
Key College Football Betting Trends
| Category | Wisconsin Badgers | Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders |
|---|---|---|
| Record | 1-0 (beat Miami, OH 17-0) | 0-1 (lost to Austin Peay 34-14) |
| QB Outlook | O’Neil: 120 pass yds, 2 TDs (1 pass, 1 rush) | Vattiato: 104 pass yds, 2 TD |
| Rushing Attack | 165 yards rushing in opener | 44 yards rushing in opener |
| Defensive Outlook | Allowed 117 total yards, shutout | Allowed 343 yards to Austin Peay |
| Series History | First meeting | First meeting |
The Lean
Model Projection: Wisconsin 31, Middle Tennessee 7
Pick: Wisconsin – Spread
Total Lean: Under 47
Wisconsin’s defense looks like one of the early-season strengths in the Big Ten, and with O’Neil showing composure in relief, the Badgers should handle business comfortably. Middle Tennessee must improve dramatically to stay competitive, but the matchup looks lopsided. Stay sharp with more previews and insights at our NCAAF Betting Predictions hub.
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