The Wisconsin Badgers defeated the South Dakota Coyotes 27-13 to pick up their second consecutive victory to open the 2024 season on Saturday.
Luke Fickell’s crew displayed a few flashes of dominance during the nonconference matchup. But in the end, Wisconsin’s overall output was relatively uninspiring.
Following his subpar, zero-touchdown performance in Week 1 against Western Michigan, quarterback Tyler Van Dyke opened the contest with a 54-yard passing drive to lead the Badgers into the end zone. He found wide receiver Vinny Anthony II for a 32-yard strike and deep threat Bryson Green for 22 yards on that possession.
He ultimately wound up with 17 completions for 214 passing yards and one touchdown, which arrived on an off-balance throw to a wide-open C.J. Williams for 50 yards down the right sideline. The play was easily the most notable of Wisconsin’s entire afternoon.
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On the ground, sophomore running back Cade Yacamelli rattled off several long rushes, including a 29-yarder in the second quarter. Veteran running back Chez Mellusi tallied 16 carries, 60 yards and two rushing touchdowns as well.
UW also recorded three sacks on the day and four pass deflections as a defensive unit to accompany its solid offensive output.
The rest of Wisconsin’s 2024 schedule is nowhere near generous. As of Sept. 8, the Badgers will square off against No. 4 Alabama, No. 11 USC, No. 8 Penn State, No. 9 Oregon and No. 23 Nebraska in five of the team’s final 11 games.