Wisconsin fell to 6-4 on the season after a 24-21 road loss to Maryland on Friday.
The defeat marks the second straight year the Badgers have lost to the Terrapins, a program that had never defeated Wisconsin prior to last season, according to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.
Maryland utilized backup quarterback Cardell Williams, who set a school record for completion percentage despite the team playing without their starting signal-caller due to injury.
Wisconsin committed three fumbles in the contest, with two of those turnovers directly setting up 10 points for the Terrapins, as reported by Yahoo Sports.
The loss has intensified public criticism regarding the tenure of head coach Luke Fickell.
Social media reactions from fans and media members suggest that the coach is facing significant pressure, with some calling for a change in leadership.
One observer noted that the current trajectory of the program is unsustainable, stating, “I don’t know what the answer is to save this program, but it ain’t Fickell and Co.”
Another media member questioned the coaching security, writing, “Is Luke Fickell back on the hot seat? You cannot lose to Maryland.”
The sentiment was echoed by other commentators who described the seat as becoming increasingly uncomfortable, per reporting by Cole Thompson.
Statistical concerns regarding the offense have also emerged during the Badgers’ inconsistent stretch.
The team has struggled to produce explosive passing performances, as noted by Matt Fortuna, who pointed out that “Wisconsin has not had a 100-yard passer in 4 of its last 5 games.”
Wisconsin has now lost all four of its games away from Camp Randall Stadium this season.
The team has failed to win consecutive games since starting conference play with two straight victories, according to USA Today Sports data.