Buffalo vs. Wisconsin Short Report | Sep 2, 2023
Camp Randall Stadium
Madison, WI
Sep 2, 2023
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Game Recap
The Wisconsin Badgers opened their 2023 season with a convincing 38-17 victory over the Buffalo Bulls at Camp Randall Stadium. The dynamic duo of Wisconsin's running backs, Braelon Allen and Chez Mellusi, spearheaded the offensive onslaught, combining for a staggering four rushing touchdowns. Mellusi particularly shined with a standout 89-yard touchdown run in the third quarter that broke the game's tempo open. Allen, not to be outdone, tallied 141 yards and two scores, showcasing Wisconsin's dominant ground game. Despite Buffalo quarterback Cole Snyder's resilience and two impressive passing touchdowns, the Bulls couldn't muster enough firepower to keep pace.
The Badgers' second-half surge, fortified by a staunch defensive front, saw them establish control, especially after a shaky first half where Buffalo kept the game tight. Wisconsin's defense also came up big with key stops and interceptions to fend off any momentum from Buffalo. Notable moments included a crucial late-game interception that sealed the Bulls' fate. The special teams unit also made headlines with Alex McNulty of Buffalo booming a 53-yard field goal, hinting at a possible comeback. Ultimately, the Badgers' balanced effort led them to their first win of the season, giving fans plenty to cheer about in Madison.
Key Plays:
Chez Mellusi (Wisconsin)
Chez Mellusi capped off a methodical opening drive with a 1-yard plunge into the endzone, setting the tone early and giving Wisconsin a 7-0 lead.
Cole Snyder (Buffalo)
Cole Snyder responded by threading the needle to Cole Harrity for a 7-yard touchdown, tying the game at 7-7 and showcasing Buffalo's early resilience.
Tanner Mordecai (Wisconsin)
Tanner Mordecai avoided pressure and connected with Chimere Dike for a 29-yard touchdown pass, extending Wisconsin's lead to 14-7 late in the second quarter.
Alex McNulty (Buffalo)
With ten seconds left in the half, Alex McNulty booted a career-long 53-yard field goal, trimming Wisconsin's lead to 14-10 and providing Buffalo with a glimmer of hope.
Chez Mellusi (Wisconsin)
In a stunning display of speed and vision, Mellusi took a handoff and sprinted 89 yards for a touchdown, breaking the game wide open and putting Wisconsin up 28-10.
Braelon Allen (Wisconsin)
Braelon Allen capped off a dominant day with a 22-yard touchdown run, bringing the score to 38-10 and putting the game out of reach.
Cole Snyder (Buffalo)
Cole Snyder hit Cole Harrity for a 3-yard touchdown pass, providing a consolation score and cutting the deficit to 38-17.
Standout Players:
Chez Mellusi (Wisconsin, RB)
Rushed 13 times for a career-high 157 yards and 2 touchdowns, including a game-changing 89-yard score that showcased his breakaway speed and vision.
Braelon Allen (Wisconsin, RB)
Allen was a workhorse, carrying the ball 17 times, amassing 141 yards, and finding the endzone twice with explosiveness and power. His versatility was highlighted as he also caught seven passes.
Cole Snyder (Buffalo, QB)
Displayed commendable poise by completing 26 of 41 passes for 194 yards and 2 touchdowns. Snyder's ability to extend plays and evade pressure was a silver lining for Buffalo.
Nathanial Vakos (Wisconsin, K)
Showed precision and reliability, converting all five extra-point attempts and nailing a 37-yard field goal, ensuring Wisconsin capitalized on scoring opportunities.
Cole Harrity (Buffalo, WR)
Harrity emerged as Snyder's favorite target, hauling in 5 passes for 47 yards and scoring both of Buffalo's touchdowns, displaying crisp route-running and secure hands.
Team
1
2
3
4
T
Buffalo Bills
7
3
0
7
17
Wisconsin Badgers
7
7
14
10
38
