Wisconsin coach Luke Fickell anticipates facing a strong version of Alabama when his team competes at Bryant-Denny Stadium this Saturday afternoon. Following a 73-point victory over ULM, Alabama has climbed up to No. 19 in the AP Top 25 Poll after a previously disappointing loss to Florida State.

Having a perfect record through two games, the Badgers still recall last year’s 42-10 defeat against Alabama. This week, Fickell was questioned about whether his team is prepared to enter the game as a three-touchdown underdog on the road.

“It doesn’t matter how I feel,” Fickell expressed on Monday, via Badger247. “What matters is we got to get ready. Based on last week’s performance, particularly the first half, it simply wasn’t up to the level we need for our expectations.

He remarked that he doesn’t have concerns about his team’s focus or preparedness for the matchup against the Crimson Tide as they approach this important game.

Alabama’s last home loss to an unranked, nonconference opponent occurred against ULM in November 2007 under coach Nick Saban.

“It’s not like we need a pep talk to get ready for this one,” Fickell noted, addressing his team’s readiness. “The key question is, at 11 o’clock on game day, can you remain composed? Can you have the patience needed to execute the game plan effectively?”

In his initial start for Wisconsin, quarterback Danny O’Neill completed 23 of 27 passes for 283 yards, securing three touchdown passes during their previous game against Middle Tennessee. O’Neill stepped in for Billy Edwards Jr., a transfer from Maryland, who sustained an injury during the opening match of the season.

Fickell stated he is uncertain about Edwards’ condition for the Alabama game but reassures that Wisconsin’s offense will be ready regardless of who is on the field. Additionally, they are dealing with an injury to veteran center Jake Renfro, who missed last week’s game due to unspecified health issues.