Sorry if I just can't find it, but can someone direct me on where we stand here? The Burkett discussion is what made me think of it. Thanks in advance.

Stay tuned.

Man he looks amazing tonight with Dallas. Impressive

Love the LF hire.

Truly feel like it’s a turning point for Wisconsin Football and the overall willingness from the admin to build a top tier program. Good for them.

And while I love and respect JL, I believe CM had to make a decision that is in the best interest of UW and its fan base rather than something that appeases the players and recruits.

And I say this because with the introduction of the transfer portal, NIL, and early entries into the draft, the school is what stands the test of time and the players truly come and go. The loyalty that once existed where you knew that most of your roster would stay 4 years is long gone so serving players interests isn’t the way to build a program.

So if we are thinking long term and had the chance to land the 2021 college football coach of the year (who knows Big 10 culture as well as anyone), then this was a no brainer decision and monumental accomplishment for CM and everyone involved.

I am proud Badger fan this week and have faith that we are on a a stronger road ahead and JL will find his place and succeed in whatever he does.

There is truly new life in the UW football program.

Lezgo!!!

I've asked before but what is the best place to make a monetary contribution to the University, if you want to support athletics? Is the Varsity Collective the most direct and effective place to sign up, as opposed to making a general donation to the University or the athletic department?

Luke Fickell has updated his twitter!!!!

The interim head coach at Aubrn has been retained on freeze’s staff.
It can and does happen.
Hoping it happens with JL.
My guess is 70% chance he stays on.

Does anyone know if I'll be able to get that on youtube?
Thanks in advance!

Lots to discuss, and after seeing and hearing Chris and Luke, here are some things I learned today.
Fickell is an intense guy, seems like a relentless competitor.
Mnookin is on board with athletics, somewhat akin to our favorite chancellor of all time Donna.
McIntosh is more than capable of leading the department, has a VERY strong vision of the football team and what it represents to the University. (I imagine this was a big part of his exchange with PC before he was fired).
The athletic department is going all out in this endeavor and is committing the resources necessary to have a successful program.
The school and athletic department are fully embracing the new world order of college athletics, conference expansion and doesn't want to be left behind.
McIntosh can see the world and make decisions at the highest level and for the best of the university and not just the comfortable and easy decisions.
McIntosh realized the downturn in excitement and support for the football program which needed a very big shot in the arm. The decisions he's made have national recognition and importance. He's a VERY good business person.
Fickell is a strong family man and I like that a lot.
Fickell has a good bead on the situation with the players and has a good philosophy on earning their trust.
McIntosh's transparency regarding the decisions he made and the impact to the players is refreshing.
I think LF wants Jimmy to stay but knows he's got to make a good decision for himself and his family.
Fickell has a plan, contacts and is going to hit the ground running.
This is either going to be a spectacular success or a terrible failure, but it seems as if everyone is all in which is a sign of good things to come.
This board is a lot more fun when everyone is in a good mood.
I sense an immediate uptick in excitement for the program, directly opposite of where PC had this thing going.

I'm sure to have more, but those are some of the things that came to light after the presser today.

Ben, Seamus and Dave are at Luke Fickell's first media availability at Wisconsin. I will be posting updates in this thread as they come in.

Troy Aikmen giving JT some major love on MNF. Well deserved, he is in absolute beast mode tonight

Just wanted to take a second and give my appreciation for all of the hard work you have done and continue to do. Been a wild season. Not a very fun one. I'm sure it has been crazy busy. The next month will probably be just as wild. Excited for the future of the Badgers program and excited for the coverage from the team. Thank you! On Wisconsin and Let's Blitz!

I'm really looking forward to LF selling Wisconsin on a national stage. For those that don't listen to Pat McAfee, here's a sample of what Fickell does to help sell his brand of football. I'm just glad he doesn't appreciate the opportunity.

Login to view embedded media

FOOTBALL ASSISTANT STRENGTH & CONDITIONING COACH

DIRECTOR OF FOOTBALL STRENGTH & CONDITIONING

FOOTBALL OFFENSIVE COORDINATOR

FOOTBALL DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR

FOOTBALL ASSISTANT COACH