College football Week 3 preview highlights the challenge Wisconsin faces in slowing down Jalen Milroe and the Alabama Crimson Tide. This highly anticipated non-conference matchup will take place at Madison’s Camp Randall Stadium, where the atmosphere is expected to be electric as the Badgers host the No. 4-ranked Tide at noon ET on FOX and the FOX Sports app.
Currently, Alabama holds the third-best odds to secure the SEC title at +460, while Wisconsin’s odds for the Big Ten title stand at +5000.
In other Week 3 matchups, the No. 9 Oregon Ducks, led by quarterback Dillon Gabriel, will face in-state rival Oregon State on the road at 3:30 p.m. ET on FOX and the FOX Sports app. Meanwhile, the defending national champion Michigan Wolverines aim to bounce back from their drop to No. 17 in the AP Top 25 Poll, taking on Arkansas State.
As Alabama prepares to clash with Wisconsin, the key question is: how can Luke Fickell’s Badgers contain an Alabama team that has amassed 105 points in its first two games?
Laken Litman: Camp Randall will undoubtedly be a lively venue on Saturday. A quick start, reminiscent of last week’s performance where Wisconsin scored touchdowns on two of its first three drives, could amplify the crowd’s energy. To stand a chance, the Badgers must capitalize on Alabama’s vulnerabilities, particularly in forcing turnovers. Although quarterback Jalen Milroe has yet to throw an interception, the Crimson Tide have fumbled six times in their opening games. Wisconsin must also remain vigilant, as Alabama turned a close game into a decisive 42-16 victory last week. Fickell’s squad must minimize explosive plays, pressure Milroe, and maintain focus throughout the contest.
[Related: Alabama’s win over USF propelled Tide to memorable 2023 run; can history repeat itself?]
RJ Young: Wisconsin’s strategy should center on running the ball effectively. By controlling the clock, they can limit Alabama’s opportunities and support a defense that has struggled with tackling in open space. A low-scoring game favors Wisconsin, while a high-scoring affair likely spells defeat. Even when Alabama has appeared disorganized, their offense, under Kalen DeBoer, has shown the ability to score rapidly, achieving 28 points in a mere 10 minutes. It’s critical for Wisconsin to avoid engaging in a high-octane shootout with Alabama.
[Related: RJ Young’s 2024 college football rankings]
4
Alabama Crimson Tide
ALA
-16.5
-794
O 49
Wisconsin Badgers
WIS
+16.5
+538
U 49
What does Alabama need to do to secure a victory in Madison?
RJ: Alabama must play a disciplined game. Their previous outings revealed a team plagued by sloppiness, committing 13 penalties and fumbling three times against South Florida. This lack of control raises questions about their readiness, even as they are ranked among the top teams in college football. With Wisconsin, Alabama has a chance to improve its image. Despite being ranked fourth by the AP, some analysts, including myself, believe they deserve a lower ranking. A strong performance from Milroe at Camp Randall will be essential, especially given Wisconsin’s struggles against less formidable opponents.
Michael: This matchup is significant, featuring a team with six national championships since 2009 (Alabama) against a program that has consistently won at least 10 games a season, highlighted by their Rose Bowl victory in 1993 under Barry Alvarez (Wisconsin). However, the talent disparity is evident. Alabama, even in the wake of Saban’s retirement, fields 67 former blue-chip recruits, while Wisconsin has just 28, according to 247Sports. This discrepancy partly explains Alabama’s 16-point favorite status. Yet, DeBoer’s team must focus on reducing mistakes, as Alabama leads the SEC in penalties and has struggled with turnovers. They need to address these issues to compete effectively.
Laken: Alabama’s recent 42-16 victory over South Florida may not reflect the true nature of their performance. The Tide faced challenges, including 13 penalties and three fumbles, leading to a narrow 14-13 lead entering the fourth quarter. Their ability to score quickly is commendable, but these mistakes cannot continue against a formidable opponent like Wisconsin. Additionally, Alabama has been without starting left tackle Kadyn Proctor, which has forced adjustments on the offensive line that have contributed to their penalties.
Which team has surprised observers the most in the early stages of the 2024 college football season?
Laken: Oregon stands out as a surprise team. Initially favored to contend for the national championship, the Ducks, with Heisman Trophy candidate Dillon Gabriel, have struggled against lesser teams from Idaho. Their recent narrow victory over Boise State raises concerns about their offensive consistency and defensive performance, which was expected to be among the best nationally. With a challenging schedule ahead, including a pivotal game against Ohio State on October 12, Oregon must improve quickly.
RJ: Oregon’s performance against Idaho teams raises eyebrows. Allowing 192 rushing yards to a Group of 5 running back is alarming. Their inability to dominate less skilled teams suggests that facing Ohio State will be a significant challenge. Initially viewed as a top-four team, Oregon must elevate its game to avoid falling behind.
9
Oregon Ducks
ORE
-17.0
-847
O 49.5
Oregon State Beavers
OREST
+17.0
+568
U 49.5
As Ryan Day’s Ohio State team dominates its opponents with a score of 112-6, who poses the biggest threat to the Buckeyes within the Big Ten this season?
Laken: Determining the biggest threat to Ohio State is challenging. Michigan’s recent loss to Texas diminishes their standing, while Oregon has yet to prove itself as a legitimate contender. USC has shown promise, but it’s still early in the season. Ohio State has a favorable schedule ahead, leading into a critical series of conference games, including a matchup against Oregon on October 12, followed by contests against Nebraska and Penn State. This stretch will be pivotal in assessing their championship aspirations.
RJ: Ohio State presents its biggest challenge. The Buckeyes have demonstrated significant improvement, especially when compared to common opponents. Their dominant 56-0 victory over Western Michigan contrasts sharply with Wisconsin’s struggle against the same team. Ohio State’s depth and talent position them well to contend against top-tier teams, but maintaining focus will be essential as they navigate the remainder of the season, particularly with the highly anticipated Michigan game on November 30 approaching.
