Luke Fickell Backed by Wisconsin AD After 2nd Shutout Loss amid Contract Buyout Info
Despite riding a five-game losing streak following a second straight shutout loss on Saturday, Wisconsin head coach Luke Fickell won't be going anywhere anytime soon.
Wisconsin athletic director Chris McIntosh wrote an open letter to Badgers fans expressing support for Fickell and declaring there will be more of a financial commitment to the football program.
David Cobb of CBS Sports reported that Fickell has a buyout of "approximately $25 million" in his contract after signing a seven-year deal with Wisconsin in 2022 and a two-year extension through the 2031 season.
The Badgers fell to 2-5 this season following a 34-0 loss to No. 1 Ohio State. It was the second straight week that their home fans had to watch them score no points, and the team's first home shutouts since 1980.
Fickell, who is in his third year with Wisconsin, has a 15-18 record during his tenure. Fans have routinely chanted for him to be fired, but McIntosh gave him a vote of confidence.
"Coach Fickell sees the potential in what this team can be, as do I, and he shares the same disappointment and frustration," McIntosh wrote, per ESPN's Adam Rittenberg. "Our student-athletes continue to stand and fight with character and pride as they battle through this moment of adversity, and they deserve all of our support."
McIntosh went on to acknowledge that the program will need more financial support to succeed, and he expects investments to increase.
"In this new era of collegiate athletics, the clear reality is that high expectations must be matched with an equal level of support," McIntosh wrote. "The results of this elevated support may not be immediate, but we are confident the direction will be positive and long-term."
Things won't get easier for Wisconsin anytime soon, as Fickell will be leading the team into a road matchup against No. 6 Oregon on Saturday.
