Wisconsin running back Melvin Gordon will return to school in 2014

As Wisconsin prepares for a showdown with South Carolina in the Capital One Bowl, the Badgers received some good news for next year. Sophomore running back Melvin Gordon announced that he will return to Madison next season for his junior season.

The second team All-Big Ten back and Doak Walker semifinalist ran for 1,466 yards and 12 touchdowns for the Badgers this season.

“After talking it over with my family and my coaches, I have decided to come back next year,” Gordon said in a release. “I love the University of Wisconsin and feel that there is still a lot of room for growth. Academically, another year in school will help me get closer to completing my degree and on the field I hope to help my team get back to the Big Ten championship.”

Gordon was named honorable mention All-America by Sports Illustrated this year and was also the only player in the Big Ten to be named a semifinalist for the Maxwell Award, given to the nation’s best player.

Gordon led the nation by averaging 8.1 yards per carry in 2013.

“Melvin is a great player and a great kid ad we are very happy with his decision,” Wisconsin coach Gary Andersen said. “We tried to be very supportive through the decision-making process and relayed all the information he needed to make an informed decision. I’m glad he can now focus on the bowl game and prepare for a great 2014.”

- - -

Want to join the conversation? Hit us up on Twitter @YahooDrSaturday be sure to "Like" Dr. Saturday on Facebook for football conversations and stuff you won't see on the blog.