Wisconsin is on a three-game losing streak, and while that can be attributed to numerous factors, one reason is the surprising disappearance of running back Cade Yacamelli.
Over the Badgers first seven games, in which they went 5-2, Yacamelli racked up 274 yards on 8.3 yards per carry in a reserve role. Now, over the last three games, he hasn't logged a single carry and has seemingly been taken out of the offense completely. It would be foolish to think his absence is the sole reason for Wisconsin's collapse, but it's odd and confusing as to why a dynamic player with carries of 29, 30 and 45 yards would be totally removed from the offense.
After starter Chez Mellusi left the team to rehab his injuries, Tawee Walker took over the role and Luke Fickell vowed to keep the rotation minimal. That left Walker, Yacamelli and Darrion Dupree to handle pretty much all of the running back duties. But over the past few weeks, it's been a two-man job, with Yacamelli left on the outside looking in.
On one hand, Dupree is likely the future starter at the position, so getting him reps isn't a bad idea. On the other hand, though, his anemic 3.7 yards per carry and long of just 15 yards isn't exactly propelling the offense. Yacamelli has proved to be the better third-down back this year, yet he hasn't been given a carry in over a month.
Maybe with offensive coordinator Phil Longo out of the picture Yacamelli could once again see more reps. He consistently made plays and often was the spark the offense needed to get going. It will be interesting to see if he sees the field at all against Nebraska and Minnesota as wins become more and more elusive.