Wisconsin secured a 27-13 victory against South Dakota with a strong performance on Saturday. Chez Mellusi scored two touchdowns, and Tyler Van Dyke contributed with a passing touchdown. Van Dyke threw for 214 yards, completing 17 of 27 passes, while Mellusi had 60 rushing yards and Cade Yacamelli added 73 yards on the ground.
The Badgers took an early 14-0 lead in the first quarter with Mellusi’s 9-yard touchdown and Van Dyke’s 50-yard pass to CJ Williams. South Dakota managed to narrow the gap to 17-13 in the third quarter but fell short in catching up. Nathanial Vakos’ 50-yard field goal and Mellusi’s 1-yard touchdown run secured Wisconsin’s win at 27-13.
Charles Pierre Jr. led South Dakota with 83 rushing yards, and Aidan Bowman completed 12 of 23 passes for 114 yards. Keyondray James-Logan scored their lone touchdown with a 35-yard run. Despite a muffed punt by Wisconsin’s Vinny Anthony that gave South Dakota an opportunity, they settled for a field goal.
Wisconsin capitalized on significant plays, including Williams’ touchdown and a 32-yard catch by Anthony. South Dakota’s defense and special teams made impactful plays, with Nyle Dickel recovering a muffed punt and Mi’Quise Grace and Mosai Newsom each recording a sack against Van Dyke.
Next, South Dakota will face Portland State on Sept. 14, while Wisconsin is set to host No. 4 Alabama on the same day.