Ohio State #1 Buckeyes vs. Wisconsin Badgers: When & How to Watch Live
Caspian Thornwood 19 October 2025 0

When the Ohio State Buckeyes (ranked No. 1 with a pristine 6‑0 record) square off against the Wisconsin Badgers (sitting at 2‑4) this Saturday, October 18, 2025, the whole Big Ten feels the tremor. The showdown unfolds at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wisconsin, and it isn’t just another conference game – it’s a test of whether the top‑seed can stay unbeaten on hostile turf. Here’s the thing: the official kickoff is listed as 3:30 p.m. Eastern on the CBS schedule, but the Badgers’ own site nudges it back to 2:30 p.m. local time, so make a note of the hour difference before you set your alarm.

Game Overview

The contest, branded as the Ohio State Buckeyes vs. Wisconsin BadgersCamp Randall Stadium, carries more than bragging rights. Ohio State enters the game averaging 42.3 points per outing while allowing just 12.8, a disparity that has scuttled most foes. Wisconsin, on the other hand, has managed a modest 24.1 points per game and a shaky 28.7 points‑allowed average. The statistical gap sets the stage for a classic "underdog versus juggernaut" narrative that fans love.

Broadcast & Streaming Options

CBS will carry the game nationally on its terrestrial network – meaning you can catch it the old‑school way with a digital antenna, or through any cable or satellite package that includes the local CBS affiliate. If you’re more of a streamer, the Paramount+ Premium tier is the ticket. At $11.99 a month (as per the Paramount+ Help Center), that plan unlocks live local CBS stations, so you won’t miss a single snap. Standard Paramount+ plans, unfortunately, skip the live feed.

For Wisconsinites who prefer audio, the Badger Radio Network will simulcast the game across 48 affiliate stations stretching from the Badger State into parts of Illinois, Minnesota, and Iowa. The voice you’ll hear is longtime play‑by‑play veteran Matt Lepay, with former Badger quarterback Michael Lampman slated to add color commentary – a duo that’s become almost as iconic as the rivalry itself.

Venue Details & History

Built in 1895, Camp Randall Stadium isn’t just a field; it’s a living museum of Wisconsin football. The 76,057‑seat arena has witnessed 11 Rose Bowl appearances, a 1963 national championship, and countless Big Ten battles. The stadium’s proximity to downtown Madison means fans can soak up a pre‑game tailgate scene that rivals any college town you’ve ever visited. Oddly enough, the venue’s iconic “Purple Wall” – a stone facade that frames the north end zone – has become a popular backdrop for social media snaps, so bring your phone.

Implications for the Big Ten Race

With the Big Ten Conference schedule heating up, this game could reshape the West division leaderboard. Ohio State’s victory would lock them into a likely outright conference title, while a Badgers upset could catapult Wisconsin into second place and give them a crucial wedge against powerhouses like Michigan and Iowa. The twist is that Wisconsin’s recent 2‑4 record has already placed them just two wins shy of bowl eligibility, so the stakes are higher than a typical homecoming clash.

Coach Ryan Day of Ohio State told reporters after Tuesday’s practice, “We respect Wisconsin, but we’re here to stay perfect. The energy in this building is different, and that fuels us.” Meanwhile, Wisconsin head coach Luke Fickell, in a brief press release, said, “Our guys love the challenge. Being the underdog gives us a chip on our shoulder, and we’ll leave everything on the field.” These comments hint at a psychological battle that could be as decisive as any X‑ and Y‑flank play.

What Fans Should Know

  • Kickoff: 3:30 p.m. ET (2:30 p.m. local) – double‑check your calendar.
  • TV: CBS (over‑the‑air) or Paramount+ Premium (streaming).
  • Radio: Badger Radio Network – look for stations ending in “-FM”.
  • Ticket price range: $55‑$150 (average $92) – early‑bird discounts still apply on the university’s box office site.
  • Parking: Lot A and B open at 11 a.m.; expect heavy traffic on University Avenue.

If you’re watching from home, remember that Paramount+ streams in 1080p HD with a slight delay of 5‑10 seconds – not enough to miss a game‑changing play, but enough to give you a few extra seconds to grab a snack. And if you’re sitting in the stands, the stadium now offers free Wi‑Fi in the south concourse, perfect for uploading those touchdown selfies.

Future Outlook

Looking beyond Saturday, Ohio State’s next hurdle is a clash with #4 Michigan on November 7, a matchup that could decide the national championship picture. Wisconsin, on the other hand, heads into a crucial road game at Nebraska on November 15, where a win would keep them alive for a potential bowl invitation. The results of this October 18 encounter will ripple through those future dates, making every snap worth watching.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I watch the game if I don’t have cable?

Buy a Paramount+ Premium subscription for $11.99 a month. The Premium tier streams live CBS, so you’ll see the game on any device that supports the app.

What time does the game start for Wisconsin viewers?

The Badgers list a local kickoff of 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, October 18, 2025. That’s 3:30 p.m. Eastern, so set your alarm accordingly.

Will the game be available on radio?

Yes. The Badger Radio Network will air the contest across 48 affiliate stations. Expect play‑by‑play from Matt Lepay and color commentary by Michael Lampman.

What’s at stake for Ohio State?

A win keeps Ohio State unbeaten (6‑0) and solidifies their No. 1 spot in the AP poll, positioning them for a likely Big Ten title and a strong shot at the College Football Playoff.

How does this game affect Wisconsin’s bowl chances?

If the Badgers pull off an upset, they jump to three wins, bringing them within reach of the six wins typically required for a bowl invitation. A loss would leave them at 2‑5, making a postseason appearance unlikely.