Wisconsin is officially into the Luke Fickell era for the Badgers with Saturday’s season opener against Buffalo. That game was a solid 38-17 win for Fickell and the Badgers, but the game was not without some tense moments early on.

In the end, Wisconsin begins the season 1-0. Moving forward, there are some areas to address, particularly before the start of B1G play, but at least Wisconsin can sleep a little easier tonight.

Here are 3 key takeaways from the season-opening win:

Chez Mellusi remains a key part of the rushing attack

Braelon Allen is still the workhorse for Wisconsin, and that’s not any surprise for the Badgers. Still, it’s certainly worth saying that the team has been at its best when Allen and Mellusi are both healthy.

In the season opener, Mellusi delivered a brilliant 89-yard lightning strike of a touchdown to help create some separation in the second half. When it was all said and done, Mellusi finished with over 150 yards rushing. Combined, the duo of Mellusi and Allen finished with just shy of 300 yards rushing against Buffalo and 4 rushing touchdowns.

With Allen alone, Wisconsin has a strong rushing attack. But add Mellusi to the mix and it’s an extra dynamic — and better depth — that defenses have to account for. Unfortunately, Mellusi has been limited by injuries the last two seasons, but he’ll get another chance to play a key role in the backfield this fall.

Tanner Mordecai leaves something to be desired in Week 1

Mordecai was a mixed bag during his Wisconsin debut, to say the least. He did complete 24-of-31 passes with a touchdown but also had a pair of interceptions. Additionally, Mordecai finished with just 189 yards in the game.

Not all of those numbers can strictly be attributed to Mordecai. Some of it is undoubtedly playcalling as the offense tries to settle in during Week 1, and part of the offensive flow relies on Wisconsin’s receivers making plays once they get the ball in their hands.

At the end of the day, Wisconsin will need better production from its receivers and Mordecai, and hopefully that comes as early in Week 2 as the offense identifies areas of improvement from Week 1.

Badgers get first taste of Phil Longo’s Air Raid

Heading into the season, a lot was made about Longo bringing the Air Raid offensive approach to Madison. He tried to address some concerns of fans, pointing to the fact he utilized an effective ground game throughout his coaching career.

When the final whistle of Week 1 came, Wisconsin had more carries to pass attempts (39 to 31). At the end of the day, one game does not tell the full story of the offense or the approach to every game, but that should give the fans an idea of what to expect moving forward.

Don’t look for the Badgers to fully leave their biggest strength aside as Wisconsin will still lean on the duo of Allen and Mellusi throughout the season.