One of the major issues the Badgers programs face is the lack of big time NIL money from huge sponsors. Some teams have so much to spread around that it makes it easy to recruit mid-range players, and they are the backbone of a team. Granted, the stars are essential, but that supporting cast needs to be good enough to allow the stars to shine.
I see it down here in Texas. The offensive linemen for the University of Texas, whether being on the bench or playing, are more than likely getting more NIL pool money than guys at Wisconsin are, playing key positions, including pool and personal NIL money.
If we think this Badger team is going to be better than a 10 win team down the road, we're sadly mistaken, unless the NIL money is at least 4 to 5 times as much as it is now, and sponsors from large entities step up and link their money to the player being a Badger.
Fickell and his staff can only do so much, with the talent they can get on board. If this year's team wins 9 games or more, I'm going to be elated. It's going to be tough getting up that far to be honest.