Rafael Gaglianone cleared to resume kicking

Wisconsin Football kicker Rafael Gaglianone was cleared to resume kicking on Wednesday. The Brazilian had been sidelined for nearly two weeks due to discomfort with his back.

The senior has had a rough history of back issues in the past. His 2016 season ended after just three games when a back injury he suffered in practice required season-ending surgery. This issue was not figured to be as serious.

Gaglianone was granted a medical hardship waiver for the 2016 back injury, granting him eligibility for this season. He returned last season to make 16 of 18 attempts, including all four attempts from 46-52 yards.

When Gaglianone was sidelined recently, redshirt freshman Collin Larsh, a walk-on from Monona Grove High School, worked as the starting kicker. Larsh kicked well in his limited action but lacks the experience of Gaglianone.

Since 2014, Wisconsin has had the luxury of Gaglianone handling the kicking duties. In 43 career games, he ranks second in school history for field goals made (60) and field goal percentage (.800). He also holds the highest extra point percentage in school history (.988, 168-for-170) and ranks second all-time in extra points (168).

Wisconsin’s school record for most game-winning field goals (4) is also held by the senior. His most recent game against No. 5 ranked LSU to open the 2016 season.

Gaglianone’s knack for making clutch kicks and his consistency kicking from distance are not underappreciated. Most programs are not fortunate enough to have kickers as reliable as Gaglianone. Any success Wisconsin sees this season will be partly due to him. It’s difficult to project where his moments will come, but when those moments arise Gaglianone can be counted on to convert the opportunities.

Gaglianone opens this season on the watch list for the 2018 Lou Groza Award. The Award is given to the best college football placekicker in the United States.

A healthy Gaglianone provides Wisconsin another valuable piece as they hunt for a Big Ten Championship and spot in the College Football Playoff.

All stats courtesy of uwbadgers.com