Luke Fickell provides Wisconsin personnel updates ahead of Notre Dame opener

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 31, 2026, 5:56 PM

Last updated Aug 31, 2026

Luke Fickell provides Wisconsin personnel updates ahead of Notre Dame opener

Summary

Wisconsin head coach Luke Fickell addressed the team’s roster status on August 31 as the Badgers prepare to open their 2026 season against Notre Dame at Lambeau Field on September 6. Fickell described the availability of offensive linemen Emerson Mandell and Kevin Heywood as game-time decisions following their participation in practice. While Colton Joseph is confirmed as the starting quarterback, the program has not yet established a formal backup, with an ongoing competition between Deuce Adams and Ryan Hopkins. Additionally, transfer running back Abu Sama was named the team's primary starter at his position. This primetime matchup marks the first time Wisconsin has played at Lambeau Field since their 2016 appearance against LSU.

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Key Details

•Wisconsin faces Notre Dame on September 6 at Lambeau Field.
•Emerson Mandell and Kevin Heywood remain game-time decisions for the season opener.
•Colton Joseph starts at quarterback with the backup role still undecided.
•Abu Sama is officially designated as the starting running back.
•The 2026 meeting is Wisconsin's first game at Lambeau Field in a decade.

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