Wisconsin Badgers defeat Western Illinois Leathernecks 36-9: Recap, Betting Results & AiQ Picks

Sat, Sep 12, 2026 · NCAAF · Western Illinois Leathernecks 9, Wisconsin Badgers 36

Wisconsin dominated Western Illinois 36–9 on Saturday at Camp Randall Stadium, with the Badgers' first-quarter explosion setting an insurmountable tone. Wisconsin led 17–3 after one quarter and 23–6 at halftime, then extended the margin to 30–9 by the end of the third. The Leathernecks were shut out in the fourth quarter.

Western Illinois Leathernecks vs. Wisconsin Badgers final score and game recap

Wisconsin's opening quarter was decisive. The Badgers scored 17 points while holding Western Illinois to 3 points, establishing a 14-point cushion before the first quarter ended. Western Illinois scored 3 points in the second quarter, but Wisconsin extended its lead to 23–6 by halftime.

The second half saw Wisconsin pull away methodically. Wisconsin scored 7 points in the third quarter to reach 30–9, and Western Illinois scored 3 points in the third quarter. Wisconsin scored 6 points in the fourth quarter to finish with a 36–9 final, with Western Illinois unable to score in the game's final period.

How did AiQ's Western Illinois Leathernecks vs. Wisconsin Badgers predictions do?

AiQ was 1–0 on this game.

The model correctly identified Wisconsin as the victor.

Western Illinois fell to 0–1 overall and 0–1 on the road with this loss. The Leathernecks have no against-the-spread or over/under record yet, as this was their first game with recorded lines.

Wisconsin improved to 1–1 overall, 1–0 at home and 0–1 away or on neutral fields. The Badgers are 0–1 against the spread in one game with a closing line and 1–0 on the over/under in one game with a recorded total. Both records are based on minimal sample sizes.

What's next for Western Illinois Leathernecks and Wisconsin Badgers?

Wisconsin hosts Eastern Michigan Eagles on Saturday, September 19.