Want an overview of the state of Wisconsin athletics? Look no further; we will take you through the Wisconsin teams that are trending up, trending down, and more.

Stock Up

No. 16 men’s hockey (0-0)

The Badgers are getting some preseason love after several years of mediocrity under Tony Granato, ranking in the pre-season top 25 by USCHO and picked to finish third in the Big Ten. It makes a lot of sense; Wisconsin has a lot of talent including preseason first-team All-Big Ten selections K’Andre Miller and Wyatt Kalynuk.

Incoming freshmen Cole Caulfield, who scored four goals in two exhibition games this summer, was an honorable mention.

Now, earn it on the ice for a full season! Granato’s clubs have shown flashes of greatness here and there, but they have never been consistent for a full season.

Men’s basketball (0-0)

I needn’t say more.

Stock Down

Jack Coan & Wisconsin’s passing offense

Coan’s stock was soaring after three solid games. For those three games, he averaged 230 passing yards, 77 percent completion rate, 1.6 passing touchdowns, and 0 touchdowns.

His fourth game was a significant step back, and he threw for 110 yards with a 62.5 percent completion rate, no touchdowns, and one interception.

Passing offenses are intricate, and the blame never truly lies only on one person. It’s partially the receivers, offensive line, and the scheme.

Plus defenses are confusing.

I hope I displayed enough nuance here to avoid backlash from Owen!

Holding high ⮣

No. 1 women’s hockey (2-0-0) ⮣

The Badgers swept Lindenwood to open the season, beating the Lions 4-0 and 6-2. Daryll Watts and Sophie Shirley both scored two goals over the weekend, and Abby Roque notched four assists. I will say it again, the Roque — Shirley — Watts line is going to put up huge numbers this year, and it’s already off to a stellar start.

Up next is a pair of home games against Penn State.

No. 19 women’s soccer (6-2-1) ⮣

It’s game against Ohio State was cancelled, but it defeated Penn State on Sunday afternoon! The win lifted Wisconsin to 3-0 in conference play.

While Wisconsin is ranked No. 19 in the coaches’ poll, it is ranked No. 10 in RPI.

Increased volatility ⟿

No. 8 Football (4-0) ⟿

After three games of total domination, the Badgers have shown some weakness on special teams and offense. However, the defense is as dominant as ever. Is the Wisconsin team that beat Michigan 35-14 the one we will so going forward? Or, will we see the one that squeaked by Northwestern 24-15?

Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

Stabilizing →

No. 13 volleyball (6-4) →

After a rocky start, the Badgers asserted themselves this weekend with a pair of victories over No. 15 Purdue and Indiana. Dana Rettke lead the way against Purdue with a .476 hitting percentage and four kills per set. Molly Haggerty earned 20 kills in four sets against Indiana.

Staying down ⮡

Men’s soccer (2-6-1) ⮡

The Badgers’ offensive struggles continued on Friday with a 0-0 tie with Maryland (4-3-1). Goalie Dean Cowdroy continues to be the only bright spot of the season, as he held onto the shutout thanks to nine saves. While Maryland is the defending NCAA champion, it is off to a slow start this year.

The Badgers got a break midway through the game as Maryland’s Malcolm Johnston was ejected after being given a red card. Even with the extra man, Wisconsin couldn’t break through.