What’s in Store for the Wisconsin Football Running Game?

The Wisconsin football team’s ground game is raising some eyebrows as the Badgers prepare for Saturday’s road matchup vs. Indiana. 

The big question mark surrounds the availability of star tailback Braelon Allen. Head coach Luke Fickell provided some insights on Monday during his media availability. 

“We don’t have all the details,” Fickell said. “He missed Sunday’s practice, and we’re at the start of the week. We’ll have to see how things progress.”

The fact that Allen hasn’t been ruled out just yet, at least in comparison to Tanner Mordecai’s situation, bodes well for his chances of returning to the field at some point. 

However, it’s still up in the air whether he’ll be ready for the Badgers game in Bloomington this weekend. In fact, barring some unforeseen update on Allen’s health, it seems rather unlikely he’ll be an option. 

What Does That Mean for Wisconsin Football vs. Indiana? 

This injury situation leaves Wisconsin football with a limited number of options in the backfield.

Jackson Acker and Cade Yacamelli are the only Badgers running backs expected to play with any in-game experience, and it’s worth mentioning that both are just one season removed from playing other positions.

Let’s also remember that Yacamelli registered his first career carry last week for -4 yards — so he’s not exactly a grizzled veteran.

Looking beyond Acker and Yacamelli, the bench options are slim pickings. Players like Zach Glouderman and Grover Bortolotti have been with the program for several seasons as walk-ons but have established themselves as anything more. Then, there’s the true freshman, Nate White, who is a terrific athlete with some playmaking ability, but he doesn’t seem physically ready to step into a role for UW at this point.

Given Coach Fickell’s remarks on Monday, it’s apparent that Wisconsin football is preparing to rely on Acker and Yacamelli if Allen isn’t fit to play on Saturday.

“You have to trust in Jackson Acker and Cade Yacamelli. They’re here for a reason,” Fickell emphasized. “Their performances in spring football and fall ball show their potential, but they haven’t had as many opportunities.”

Acker showed some promise in the game against Rutgers this season, with 13 carries and 65 yards. However, he’s averaged under four yards per carry in the three games since then. The Verona native is a tough north-south runner who should allow the Badgers to continue mixing in the run.

Yacamelli, on the other hand, is better suited as a pass catcher in open space rather than running between tackles. His athletic measurables are impressive — so finding a way to manufacture a few touches could offer a nice compliment in theory.

Final Thoughts 

Luke Fickell hinted at the opportunity to give younger Wisconsin football players more game time while preserving their redshirt eligibility with four games left in the season. 

Though it’s uncertain if players like Nate White, who might need more physical development, will see the field, it could become a necessary move under these dire circumstances.

Because the Wisconsin Badgers are in the thick of a Big Ten West title race — all options have to be considered. Expect to see an extended look at Jackson Acker and Cade Yacamelli against the Hoosiers on Saturday. 

Wisconsin Football vs. Indiana: Key Players, Notes, & Betting Lines

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