WATCH: Chez Mellusi Scores Wisconsin's First Touchdown of 2024 Season
Badgers' Running Back Crosses Goal Line in Home Opener
Mellusi Leads Wisconsin to Victory Over Illinois State
MADISON, Wis. - Chez Mellusi scored the first touchdown of the 2024 Wisconsin football season, leading the Badgers to a 35-14 victory over Illinois State on Saturday at Camp Randall Stadium.
Mellusi, a junior running back, rushed for 123 yards on 20 carries and scored on a 1-yard run in the first quarter.
The Badgers improve to 1-0 on the season, while Illinois State falls to 0-1.
Mellusi's Touchdown Gives Badgers Early Lead
Mellusi's touchdown gave Wisconsin an early 7-0 lead in the first quarter.
The Badgers went on to score two more touchdowns in the first half, taking a 21-7 lead into the locker room.
Wisconsin added two more touchdowns in the second half to seal the victory.
Mellusi Leads Wisconsin's Ground Game
Mellusi was Wisconsin's leading rusher on Saturday, carrying the ball 20 times for 123 yards and a touchdown.
Junior running back Braelon Allen added 89 yards on 15 carries.
The Badgers finished the game with 253 rushing yards.
Badgers' Defense Shuts Down Illinois State
Wisconsin's defense held Illinois State to just 14 points on Saturday.
The Badgers forced two turnovers, including an interception by senior safety John Torchio.
Wisconsin also sacked Illinois State quarterback Zack Annexstad four times.
Up Next
The Badgers will host New Mexico State next Saturday at Camp Randall Stadium.
The Aggies are 0-1 on the season after losing to Nevada in their season opener.
Kickoff is set for 11 a.m. CT.
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