3 Big Things From Wisconsin Football 24-13 Win Over Rutgers

Wisconsin football looked to continue its historic dominance over Rutgers on homecoming weekend in Madison. A slow start to this one: Wisconsin’s defense showed up big time and helped secure the win 24-13.

Here are three big things from the Badgers win.

Wisconsin Football Had a Dominant Defense

I have been critical of the Badger defense and their performance in previous games. This group looked to lack the talent for the scheme they wanted to run. Today was the opposite. Wisconsin football defense was flying around and making plays from the jump.

Late in the first half, Rutgers threatened to make this a one-score game when Ricardo Hallman took an interception 95 yards to the house. Ultimately, it was a massive play that made it 17-0 instead of 10-7, with Rutgers set to get the ball back to start the second half.

MAMA, THERE HE GOOOOOOES!! pic.twitter.com/f2Zyet37jZ

— Wisconsin Football (@BadgerFootball) October 7, 2023

The Wisconsin football defense gave up only 13 points and held Rutgers to 2/12 on third down.

Replacing Chez Mellusi

It’s no secret that replacing Chez Mellusi is no easy task. After his unfortunate injury at Purdue two weeks ago, Chez will be out for the year. Chez was off to a terrific start to the season, and we wish him a speedy recovery. As far as replacing his production goes, a lot of pressure will be put on Braelon Allen to carry this run game.

However, another name to watch out for is Jackson Acker. The former fullback saw some action today and made the most of his opportunities. If he can bring some production, that will help Allen a ton. Don’t forget quarterback Tanner Mordecai can also use his legs to contribute to the run game.

Against a good Rutgers run defense, Wisconsin football ran for 213 yards on 46 attempts. Allen went over 100, Acker with 65 and Mordecai chipped in 50 of his own.

Some Offensive Miscues

I never expected to write about how the center snaps the ball, but it was an issue today. I lost track of how often the ball was high, low, or lofted back to Tanner Mordecai. Honestly, it was a testament to how well Mordecai handled these snaps.

On Braelon Allen’s 18-yard touchdown, you could see it was almost a disaster due to the snap. Additionally, Wisconsin lost a fumble in the red zone and a fumble when trying to run some clock. An inconsistent offense can’t also have miscues like they did today.

He's broken through into the end zone for a @BadgerFootball TD from @BraelonAllen. 😤

💻: Peacock pic.twitter.com/4XucoJK7jm

— Big Ten Football (@B1Gfootball) October 7, 2023

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