Wisconsin fans walk back Luke Fickell criticisms as Badgers defeat No. 24 Washington

The Badgers, despite having a punter as their leading passer, took down their first ranked opponent since 2021.

Nov 8, 2025; Madison, Wisconsin, USA; Wisconsin Badgers quarterback Carter Smith (5) celebrates after rushing for a touchdown during the third quarter against the Washington Huskies at Camp Randall Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images | Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images

MADISON, Wis. -- The Wisconsin Badgers, riding a six-game losing streak and without several of its starters on both sides of the football, were considered significant underdogs against the 24th ranked team in the country.

But, just days after Chris McIntosh announced Luke Fickell would be back for the 2026 season -- a decision that was met with immense criticism -- the Badgers delivered their first ranked win of the Fickell era.

Snowflakes fell as a uniquely small Camp Randall crowd stormed the field. Fans online, had the opportunity to walk back some past criticism of Fickell and soak in what could be a program-altering win

Maybe Chris McIntosh was right?

Bringing a coach with a 14-19 record in two-plus seasons back for another year was a bold move by the Wisconsin Atheltic Department. Making the announcement amidst a six-game losing streak was even bolder. However, the decision seemingly gave Fickell, his staff and his players a spark, and it showed on the field.

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For all the shit I've given Fickell, gotta give credit where it's due...
He's got the kids ready to play today...#Badgers#OnWisconsin

— Lt. Dan (@dangehrke) November 9, 2025

Say what you want about Fickell but it sure seems like his players have not quit on him in spite of all the outside noise.

— Ryan Larson (@i_f_n_rule) November 8, 2025

This badgers team hasn’t quit on Fickell, I think that’s something fans need to take more notice on

— Austin (@Austin53431179) November 8, 2025

Seeing this game and last weeks game might have changed my opinion on this badgers program a little bit.

— Cam McCarrier (@CamMcCarrier) November 9, 2025

Wisconsin rallying behind fickell

— TheBugle (@noaveragefan) November 9, 2025

fickell pull this off and i’ll donate to the nil

— . (@4pftroiiii) November 9, 2025

It’s clear the players want to play for Fickell. That speaks louder than anything McIntosh has to say

— Austin (@Austin53431179) November 9, 2025

This is the most juice I’ve seen from this #Badgers team since Fickell took over. The youth movement is in full swing. Immediate results of the Fickell news seem to be positive.

— Drew Pakenham (@DrewEsports) November 9, 2025

Between admitting mistakes and acknowledging the fact that the players have seemingly rallied around their doubted head coach, a large chunk of Badger nation seems to be feeling remorse.

All we need is to start in the red zone!! Those linebackers give me glimpses into the old Wisconsin defense days.

I’m Cichey, Watt, Biegel, Edwards, Borland, Herbig, Baun, Schofield, Lewis flashbacks.

— Colton Wilson (@ColtonWilson23) November 8, 2025

Fans celebrate a much-needed win

Wisconsin hadn't celebrated a victory in 63 days, and hadn't had one over a ranked opponent to rejoice about in 1,470 days. Naturally, Badger fans had plenty to say about the victory.

Related: What keeping Luke Fickell means for the future of Wisconsin Badgers football

The Haters are sick we beat a ranked team with only 6 pass completions and I love it! https://t.co/V8QoqGUoRF

— Big Cat (@BarstoolBigCat) November 9, 2025

Congrats to Coach Fickell. I know there’s a lot of work ahead and a massive hill to climb, but that man, this program, this city, this state…we all needed this win tonight. On Wisconsin.

— In Gard We Trust (@MadisonMessiah) November 9, 2025

THIS IS THE GREATEST DAY OF MY LIFE

— Ryan (@BrewPack8) November 9, 2025

Wisconsin breaks 0-4 streak against Washington! Massive win for Luke Fickell rebuilding the program. Breaking losing streaks creates momentum that's worth more than just one game. #BadgerFootball #Wiscopic.twitter.com/VjWEFlXHBs

— Parlay Pete (@ParlaysPete) November 9, 2025

Unbelievable. It sure looked like the Badgers came to play. They never gave up. There was fire today that has been missing. The defense was better. The offense was not great but they played like they wanted to win. The QB looked like he has potential. He clearly had a spark.

— Bill Kutzke (@BillPortage) November 9, 2025

Crazy win. Are the Badgers back?

I’m kidding, kinda, I mean it is a top 25 team! https://t.co/LU28md34JJ

— JP (@ZippinPackers) November 9, 2025

This is what we needed!!!! Everybody will get on board now!!!! Remember this night! We are witnessing the night Wisconsin turned back into a national powerhouse!!! Celebrate, fellow Badgers!!!!#infickwetrust

— Fan of Badgers/Bears (@fanofwinners) November 9, 2025

Badgers just beat #23 Washington.
Still wanna fire Fickell? 🤔
Buy in or shut up. #OnWisconsin

— Andy (@ArtisanKnight) November 9, 2025

While the win has Badgers fans buzzing, Wisconsin will have to take the momentum and build upon it going forward. However, they'll have to do so on the road next week against No. 2 Indiana.

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