Wisconsin running back Chez Mellusi is expected to miss the rest of the season after suffering a fractured fibula in Friday’s game at Purdue, sources told ESPN.
Melosi was injured in the fourth quarter of Wisconsin’s 38-17 win when Purdue’s Kedran Jenkins fell on his left leg after being tackled. The Badgers senior left the field on a wagon but returned to Wisconsin with the team afterward. Mellusi had 307 yards and four touchdowns on 51 carries before the injury, including 39 yards on 11 carries against Purdue.
Starting running back Braylon Allen acknowledged Melosi after a touchdown in the final minutes, making a heart sign with his hands and holding up one finger for Melosi’s jersey number.
“If we lose him for a while, it’s going to be tough,” Badgers coach Luke Fickell said after the game. “He’s not just a great football player for us, he’s not just a great fullback. He’s been the heart and soul of what we do, because of what he’s been through, all the ups and downs, the injuries. “The attitude he has, it’s a big part. “If he can’t leave for a while, he’ll still be a really big part of what we do.”
Melosi is in his third season with Wisconsin after transferring from Clemson. He started nine games in 2021 and has 1,595 yards and 11 touchdowns as a Badger. Because Melosi suffered the injury in the fourth game this fall, he may be eligible to return for a sixth season in 2024.
Sophomore Jackson Acker is expected to take on a larger role alongside Allen in Melosi’s absence.
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