Has Luke Fickell done enough to warrant a contract extension with the Wisconsin Badgers?
That’s the pressing question among many following the university’s decision to extend the head coach’s tenure until 2032, adding four more years to the contract he signed in 2022.
Wisconsin Badgers fans Fans watch as the Wisconsin Badgers compete against the Rutgers Scarlet Knights during the second quarter of a Big Ten football game at Camp Randall Stadium on November 3, 2018, in Madison, Wis. Adam Wesley/USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin Gpg Badgersvsrutgers 110318 Abw074 The UW Athletics department announced:
The UW Athletic Board convened Wednesday afternoon and approved the UW Department of Athletics’ recommendations regarding contracts for four head coaches.
Football coach Luke Fickell’s seven-year deal has been extended through March 31, 2032.
Reactions to the extension are mixed, largely due to Fickell’s performance.
The Badgers concluded the 2024 season with a disappointing 5-7 record, marking the first time since 2001 that they failed to qualify for any bowl games.
Fickell’s overall record since taking the helm isn’t impressive either. He currently sits at 12-13 over two seasons, marking the worst record for a coach since Barry Alvarez in 1990.
This situation is frustrating. What has Fickell done to merit an extension aside from wearing a stylish vest?
— Jordan Love Believer (still) (@love10god) February 19, 2025
Securing a 7-year extension is undoubtedly Fickell’s most significant achievement at Wisconsin.
— Brad Powers (@BradPowers7) February 19, 2025
However, some individuals are maintaining a positive outlook.
I understand the past two years have been challenging at Wisconsin, but I believe this is a smart move. The transition was significant when he arrived, and quick fixes aren’t feasible. Luke Fickell is an excellent coach and just needs a bit more time to get things on track.
— Storm Chaser Jason🌰Garrison (@Jason23Gar) February 20, 2025
The Wisconsin Badgers’ decision to extend Luke Fickell has drawn mixed reactions. While the critiques focus on football performance, others argue that the athletic director’s actions align with a longstanding tradition.
The reasoning behind the extension is to prevent coaches from nearing the end of their original contracts.
Dillon Graff from Badgers Notes explained that this is a standard procedure.
“This is a routine practice for Wisconsin, ensuring coaches retain their full contract length instead of approaching expiration. It’s widely believed that this strategy bolsters job security and aids in recruiting efforts.”
Another analyst takes a more practical approach, indicating that the Badgers’ front office is exercising patience with Fickell and recognizing the positive outcomes of his offseason strategies.
“Fickell deserves credit for acting swiftly to address issues. He brought in offensive coordinator Jeff Grimes from Kansas, who will introduce a more physical running game reminiscent of the legendary Badgers teams,” wrote CBS reporter Shehan Jeyarajah.
“The program also added quarterback Billy Edwards Jr. from Maryland and welcomed 18 transfers, contributing to a top 25 recruiting class. In 2025, the Badgers will compete against Alabama, Michigan, Ohio State, and Oregon.”
Leave a Reply