Wisconsin has named its starting running back against Notre Dame

Wisconsin did not release a depth chart like Notre Dame did for its season opening game, but head coach Luke Fickell did name his starting running back.

The Badgers have a long history of elite play at the position, and its new starter will be Abu Sama as posted on social media by Jesse Temple. The senior played his first three years at Iowa State before transferring in this spring, as he rushed for 1,933-yards with 13 touchdowns during those seasons. He’s not much of a receiving threat, with just 20 catches over that time frame.

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At 5-foot, 11-inches and 211-pounds, Sama has the ideal size for a back, compact with a lower center of gravity. However, the production hasn’t equaled the physique, as he rushed for over 100-yards just once last season in a loss to Colorado. It would be hard to imagine that Sama will have a big day against Notre Dame, considering it is one of the best defenses in the country.

Usage will be a big question, as he had just one game last fall with over 20 carries. Sama doesn’t pose a huge threat to the Irish offense, as they now know who they can prepare for on Sunday.

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This article originally appeared on Fighting Irish Wire: Wisconsin has named its starting running back against Notre Dame