The Badgers were led by seventh-year head coach Paul Chryst and competed as members of the West Division of the Big Ten Conference.

They played their home games at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin.

Outgoing *Entered NCAA transfer portal midseason or prior to bowl Incoming Although the Big Ten Conference has not held an official preseason poll since 2010, Cleveland.com has polled sports journalists representing all member schools as a de facto preseason media poll since 2011.

For the 2021 poll, Wisconsin was projected to finish first in the West Division.

[1] Quarterback Running back Fullback Wide receiver Tight end Offensive lineman Defensive lineman Long snappers Kicker Punter Linebacker Defensive back Source:[3] at Camp Randall Stadium, Madison, Wisconsin No scoring No scoring Top passers Top rushers Top receivers Top defenders