Wisconsin is expected to start freshman QB Ryan Hopkins against Rutgers

Wisconsin is turning the offense over to true freshman Ryan Hopkins on Saturday against Rutgers. CBS Sports' Matt Zenitz reported Friday that starter Colton Joseph, who has been dealing with an injury, is not expected to start, and Hopkins is expected to make his first career start. A source later confirmed the same plan to ESPN.

Joseph has started eight games and has 1,346 passing yards, 11 touchdowns and five interceptions on 55.6 percent completions, per ESPN. He completed 5 of 14 for 90 yards in last week's 30-0 loss at Iowa before Hopkins entered and went 8 of 13 for 93 yards with an interception. Zenitz added that Joseph is expected to dress and be available if needed.

Hopkins arrived from Mater Dei as a consensus three-star in the 2026 class. Badger Blitz reported he took a heavy share of first-team reps this week. Wisconsin is 5-3 and 3-2 in the Big Ten. Kickoff against Rutgers (2-6, 1-4) is set for 3:15 p.m. CT at Camp Randall Stadium on Big Ten Network.