The 2026 college football final four will feature a much‑anticipated clash between the Rutgers Scarlet Knights and the Wisconsin Badgers, scheduled for November 7, 2026, in Madison, Wisconsin.
A Crucial Clash in Madison
Wisconsin enters the game after a 4‑8 overall record and a 2‑7 mark in Big Ten play during the 2025 season, a year that exposed major offensive shortcomings.
The Badgers' offense managed just 253 yards per game a year ago, ranking among the nation's worst, and the passing attack lagged behind even Iowa's.
To address those issues, Wisconsin has bolstered its roster with transfer quarterback Colton Joseph from Old Dominion, who brings dual‑threat capabilities, and running back Abu Sama III, a former Iowa State standout expected to anchor the ground game.
Defensively, the Badgers have added edge rushers Jon Jon Kamara and Justus Boone, while retaining key tacklers Mason Posa and Cooper Catalano who helped limit turnovers last season.
Head coach Luke Fickell, who finishes his tenure with a 17‑21 overall record and a 10‑17 conference slate, will rely on offensive coordinator Jeff Grimes and defensive coordinator Mike Tressel to implement the changes.
Among the returning standouts are wide receiver Chris Brooks Jr., linemen Colin Cubberly and Emerson Mandell, and defensive back Matthew Jung, all of whom will look to provide stability.
The incoming transfer class also features defensive lineman Djidjou Bah, wideout Keeyshawn Tabuteau, and offensive lineman Brady Bekkenhuis, who could add depth as the Badgers aim to generate more turnovers in 2026.
Rutgers' schedule includes matchups against UMass, Boston College, USC, Howard, Indiana, Maryland, Northwestern, Michigan, Nebraska, Penn State, and Michigan State, setting a demanding path toward the final four.
The game will be played at Camp Randall Stadium, a venue that holds 76,030 fans, adding to the atmosphere as both teams look to make a statement before the postseason.