The Wisconsin Badgers suffered more than just a double-digit loss against Ohio State last weekend. Star running back Braelon Allen suffered an injury on goal-line stuff and was later seen on the sidelines in a walking boot.
Allen was able to walk off on his power, albeit gingerly.
How Long Will Braelon Allen Be Out?
The degree and severity of Braelon Allen’s injury are unknown as of right now. It is an ankle injury, but not much else has been revealed beyond that. Wisconsin head coach Luke Fickell did state earlier this week that Allen didn’t practice Monday but they would know more about Allen’s injury and status as the week went on.
Wisconsin has yet to announce Allen’s status as of the time of this writing, though the backups are preparing extensively should he be out. If Allen is unable to play Saturday against Indiana, the Badgers will rely on sophomore Jackson Acker and freshman Cade Yacamelli to replace him.
It does not sound like this will be a long-term injury for Allen, given Wisconsin’s relative silence about it. If Allen is to miss time, it seems like it might just be for a game or two. However, every game counts for Wisconsin at this stage of the season.
Braelon Allen’s Impact For Wisconsin
Allen was the engine that made Wisconsin’s already-struggling offense go. Allen’s 754 rushing yards were more than double the next player on Wisconsin’s team, and he was the focal point of the offense with quarterback Tanner Mordecai hurt.
His playmaking is a significant reason why Wisconsin is 5-3 and tied for first place in the Big Ten West. Allen already had 50 yards on a stout Ohio State defense before missing the entire second half. His absence would be a significant blow to Wisconsin, who is still vying for a spot in the Big Ten Championship.
Wisconsin still has to take on Indiana and Northwestern as well as two teams they are tied for first place with the Nebraska Cornhuskers and Minnesota Golden Gophers. If Allen misses more time than anticipated, these divisional matchups get that much harder for the Badgers.
Allen ranks 148th on Pro Football Network’s 2024 NFL Draft Big Board as the RB12. Allen has rushed for 754 yards and eight touchdowns on 130 carries so far this season. An injury certainly diminishes his draft stock, though his talent and meaning to this Wisconsin team cannot be understated.