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FOX’s Joel Klatt Puts Unbeaten Big Ten Program on Upset Alert Against Unranked Conference Rival

FOX Sports analyst Joel Klatt has raised eyebrows by predicting an upset in the Big Ten as unranked Wisconsin (4-1) looks to end UCLA’s (5-0) unbeaten streak in a home game for the Bruins. Klatt, who has previously backed the Bruins, highlighted Wisconsin’s stout defense—ranked fifth nationally in yards allowed per play—as a potential Achilles’ heel for UCLA, particularly with the Bruins’ reliance on a ground game.

The Badgers have already shown improvement under coach Luke Fickell, following a tough stretch last season, and have beaten No. 13 Penn State and dismantled Michigan State (31-3) this year, with quarterback Colton Joseph throwing for three touchdowns and adding 141 rushing yards in the latter win.

Meanwhile, UCLA’s quarterback situation remains uncertain after Nico Iamaleava suffered a knee injury against Oregon, leaving Ty Dieffenbach as the starter. Though Dieffenbach has experience at Cal Poly, his limited passing workload in UCLA’s recent win over Oregon leaves questions about his readiness to handle a full offensive load.

The Bruins’ rushing attack, led by running back Wayne Knight (548 rushing yards, 10 rushing touchdowns), will be key, but Klatt’s prediction of a 20-17 Wisconsin victory suggests he sees the Badgers’ defense as a matchup UCLA cannot easily overcome.

Klatt’s confidence in Wisconsin’s chances was partly fueled by the narrow betting line—UCLA was favored by just 2.5 points despite its perfect record and home-field advantage. The Badgers have also climbed to fifth in the Big Ten championship race, a sign of their growing competitiveness.

With Wisconsin’s defense poised to disrupt UCLA’s offensive rhythm and the Bruins’ quarterback situation still unresolved, Klatt’s call adds a layer of intrigue to what was once seen as a routine victory for the Bruins.

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