Every day is closer to the beginning of the 2023 Wisconsin Badgers football season. The popular opinion is the Badgers are looked at as the favorite in the Big Ten West. In order for Wisconsin to be successful this year, there are 10 individuals they need to rely on the most. Over the next few weeks, I will highlight one player or coach. Today, I begin with Chez Mellusi.
Why Mellusi
It’s not often you will have a backup running back as one of the most important players on your team. However, Chez Mellusi is a vital part of this team and should play an important role in Phil Longo’s offense. I wouldn’t expect Mellusi to get more than 12 carries a game, but with how physical of a runner Braelon Allen is, it’s important Mellusi goes in and steals some reps to keep him and Allen fresh. Also, Mellusi would be a starter for most Big Ten teams so he’s not slouch by any stretch. He’s a good running back and plays a great 1B for Braelon Allen.
What To Expect This Year
I expect a similar workload for Mellusi compared to the last few seasons. I don’t think it’s crazy to think he could run for over 600 yard and eight touchdowns. Over his first two seasons in Madison, he’s rushed for almost 1,300 yards and seven touchdowns. The offensive line should be good and there should be room for a dozen carries a game as well.
Health is the biggest obstacle for Mellusi. While he enters his third year in Madison, he’s missed time each of the first two seasons. One injury was season ending in November of 2021 and last year he missed a month in the middle of the season. If he can stay healthy, Mellusi is one of the better backup running backs in the Big Ten and should get a good amount of work this year.
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