Since 2023
Built Cincinnati into a CFP team (13-0 in 2021, first Group of Five program to reach the playoff) before taking over a Wisconsin program accustomed to 10- win seasons. Has not delivered a winning Big Ten record in three seasons and enters 2026 widely regarded as one of the hottest seats in the sport despite a massive new financial commitment from the university.
Record & context
Lifetime record80–45 overall (17–20 at Wisconsin)
Current program4th season at Wisconsin
Years in system—
ATS contextNo single published career ATS figure 2025 finished 4-8 (2-7 Big Ten), the worst record of Fickell's tenure, including being outscored 181-41 across a 6-game losing streak. Wisconsin closed with ranked wins over then-No. 23 Washington and then-No. 21 Illinois — a flash of the ceiling that's kept Fickell employed into a make-or-break 2026.
Previous season4-8 (2-7 Big Ten)
Compensation
Salary$7.7M
Sourcedoubled from 2025) Coach salary per On3 (7-yr deal through 2032, $100K annual raises). NIL figure per The Athletic (cited by OutKick/Badger of Honor): Wisconsin's 2026 roster spend
Designationreported
Confidence—
Figures are labeled by designation. Estimated values are not official contract terms.