The University of Wisconsin football program has a storied history filled with remarkable achievements. From their unclaimed national championship in 1942 to their numerous Big 10 Conference championship titles, the Badgers have left an indelible mark on college football. Discover Wisconsin Football championship seasons, and the notable players and coaches who have contributed to their legacy. We also take a deep dive into the numbers that live in the hearts of Badger fans.
The 1942 Unclaimed National Championship
In 1942, the Wisconsin Badgers had one of their most exceptional seasons, finishing with an 8-1-1 record. Although they did not officially claim the national championship, their dominant performance that year remains a significant part of the team’s history. Led by head coach Harry Stuhldreher, the Badgers showcased their strength and skill, earning them a place in the annals of college football.
Wisconsin Big 10 Football Championships
The Wisconsin Badgers have secured an impressive 14 Big 10 conference championships, solidifying their position as one of the premier teams in the conference. Here’s a look at these championship seasons:
- 1896 – The inaugural Big 10 championship, marking the beginning of Wisconsin’s football dominance.
- 1897 – Back-to-back champions, establishing the Badgers as a formidable force.
- 1901, 1906, 1912 – Early 20th-century triumphs that set the stage for future success.
- 1952 – A post-war victory that revitalized the Badgers’ reputation.
- 1959, 1962 – The late ’50s and early ’60s saw Wisconsin rise to prominence once again.
- 1993, 1998, 1999 – The ’90s were a golden era for the Badgers, marked by three championships.
- 2010, 2011, 2012 – Wisconsin dominated the early 2010s with three consecutive titles.
These championships have placed Wisconsin in the upper echelon of Big 10 dominance. The Badgers trail only Michigan, Ohio State, Minnesota, and Illinois in terms of most conference titles.
Wisconsin Rose Bowl Victories
The Rose Bowl is one of the most prestigious bowl games in college football, and the Wisconsin Badgers have had their fair share of victories in this illustrious event. Barry Alvarez guided UW to all three of their victories Here are some of their notable wins in the bowl that’s known as the Grandaddy of them all:
- 1994 Rose Bowl – Led by Heisman Trophy winner Ron Dayne, the Badgers defeated UCLA 21-16, marking their first Rose Bowl victory.
- 1999 Rose Bowl – Ron Dayne once again led the charge, helping Wisconsin secure a 38-31 victory over UCLA.
- 2000 Rose Bowl – The Badgers made history by winning back-to-back Rose Bowls, defeating Stanford 17-9.
Wisconsin Badgers Football By the Numbers
Discover some of the most important numbers that define UW football. Whether it’s the number of conference championships, Rose Bowl victories or retired jersey numbers, these numbers will resonate loudly with Badger fans.
1 Super Bowl winning quarterback: Russel Wilson in Super Bowl XLVIII following the 2013 NFL regular season.
2 – Heisman Trophy winners: Alan Ameche 1954 Ron Dayne 1999
3 – Pro Football Hall of Fame members: Elroy Hirsch, Joe Thomas and Mike Webster
3- Rose Bowl Victories
10 – Rose Bowl appearances
13 – Most wins by a Wisconsin football team accomplished in 2017
14 – Big 10 Championships
33 – Ron Dayne’s retired jersey number
35 – Alan Ameche’s retired jersey number
40 – Elroy Hirsch’s retired jersey number – Also known as “Crazy Legs Hirsch,” this playmaker earned a spot as one of the NFL’s Top 100 all-time players.
80 – Dave Schreiner’s retired jersey number
83 – Allan Shafer’s retired jersey number
85 – Most points scored by a Wisconsin football team when they defeated Marquette 85-0 in 1915.
88 – Pat Richter’s retired jersey number
1889 – The Wisconsin Badgers played their first season
1902 – Wisconsin’s first Rose Bowl appearance
1949 – Bucky Badger made his first appearance
1969 – The year Wisconsin’s 5th Quarter tradition began
1994 – Wisconsin’s first Rose Bowl victory
