Wisconsin football class of 2026 defensive line target commits to a Big Ten rival

**Wisconsin Football Loses 2026 Defensive Line Target Blake Smythe to Big Ten Rival Indiana**

The Wisconsin Badgers suffered a recruiting setback as three-star defensive lineman Blake Smythe committed to the Indiana Hoosiers for the 2026 class. Smythe, a standout from Franklin Community High School in Indiana, announced his decision via Instagram Live, choosing Indiana over Wisconsin, Purdue, Illinois, Louisville, and Michigan State .([Bucky’s 5th Quarter][1])

Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 275 pounds, Smythe had been a top target for Wisconsin. He attended the Badgers’ Junior Day in March, where he felt a strong connection with the coaching staff. Despite this, Indiana’s proximity and the opportunity to continue a family legacy—his grandfather played for the Hoosiers—played significant roles in his decision .([Badger of Honor][2])

Wisconsin’s 2026 recruiting class had been making strides, securing commitments from Indiana natives Tayshon Bardo (wide receiver), Carsen Eloms (cornerback), and Benjamin Novak (offensive lineman). Adding Smythe would have bolstered their defensive line prospects. Currently, the Badgers have one defensive lineman, three-star Carmelow Reed, committed for the 2026 class .([Bucky’s 5th Quarter][1])

In response to Smythe’s decision, Wisconsin is intensifying efforts to recruit other defensive line prospects. Notably, they are pursuing King Liggins from Chicago’s Brother Rice High School, who recently took an official visit to Madison and has garnered interest from multiple Big Ten programs. Additionally, Yahya Gaad from Tennessee and Jermaine Polk from Ohio are on Wisconsin’s radar, with both planning official visits in the coming weeks .([Badger of Honor][2])

While Smythe’s commitment to Indiana is a disappointment for Wisconsin, the Badgers remain focused on strengthening their 2026 class. With several key targets still considering Wisconsin, the coaching staff aims to rebound and secure top talent to enhance their defensive lineup.

[1]: https://www.buckys5thquarter.com/2025/5/2/24422483/wisconsin-badgers-recruiting-2026-defensive-line-target-blake-smythe-announce-commitment-on-friday?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Badgers 2026 defensive line target to announce commitment on …”
[2]: https://badgerofhonor.com/3-star-recruit-spurns-wisconsin-for-big-ten-rival-luke-fickell-is-already-moving-on?utm_source=chatgpt.com “3-star recruit spurns Wisconsin for Big Ten rival: Luke Fickell is already moving on”