Sources: Wisconsin’s Mellusi has actually fractured fibula

• Adam Rittenberg, ESPN

  • Senior WriterSep 23, 2023, 07:35 PM ET Close College football press reporter.
  • Signed up with ESPN.com in 2008.
  • Graduate of Northwestern University.Wisconsin running back

Chez Mellusi is anticipated to miss the remainder of the season after suffering a fractured fibula in Friday’s game at Purdue, sources told ESPN.Mellusi was injured in the fourth quarter of Wisconsin’s 38-17 triumph when Purdue’s Kydran Jenkins came down on his left leg after tackling him. The Badgers senior left the field on a cart however flew back to Wisconsin with the group afterward. Mellusi had 307 rushing lawns and 4 goals on 51 carries prior to the injury, consisting of 39 backyards on 11 carries against Purdue.Starting running back Braelon Allen acknowledged Mellusi following a touchdown run in the final minutes, making a heart sign with his hands and holding up a single finger for Mellusi’s jersey number.Editor’s Picks “If we lose him for a while, it will be tough,”Badgers coach Luke Fickell stated after the game.”He’s not simply a great football player for us, he’s not simply a great tailback. He’s been a heart and soul of what we do, because of what he’s gone through, all of the ups and downs, and the injuries. To have the attitude that he has, he’s a huge part. If he can’t opt for a while, he’ll still be a really big part of what we do.”Mellusi is in his third season with Wisconsin after moving from Clemson. He started 9 games in 2021 and has 1,595 rushing backyards and 11 touchdowns as a Badger.

Since Mellusi suffered the injury in the 4th game this fall, he might be qualified to return for a sixth season in 2024. Sophomore Jackson Acker is anticipated to take on a bigger function alongside Allen in Mellusi’s absence.