The running back spot is an intriguing one for LSU in 2024. The Tigers have no clear No. 1 with several players battling for carries.
You have the veterans, [autotag]Josh Williams[/autotag] and [autotag]John Emery Jr.[/autotag] The sophomores hoping for a breakout, [autotag]Kaleb Jackson[/autotag] and [autotag]Trey Holly[/autotag]. Then you have [autotag]Caden Durham[/autotag], one of the top recruits in LSU’s 2024 class.
Three of the four major recruiting services ranked Durham as a top 10 back in the class. Rivals was the highest, slating Durham No. 4 at his position.
Running back is a position where players can make an impact as a true freshman. There’s a chance for Durham to do that in 2024.
For now, the bulk of the carries are set to go to sixth-year senior Williams and sophomore Jackson. LSU’s offense will rely on the backs much more in 2024 than it did in 2023. Without [autotag]Jayden Daniels[/autotag]’ explosive rushing ability at QB, the Tigers have look elsewhere for their ground production.
LSU will need more than just Williams or Jackson to get through the year. Williams is a solid player, but he’s not a feature back. Jackson has the talent to be a centerpiece, but might still be a year away from reaching his ceiling. Expect a good amount of rotation here.
That means a guy like Durham will get his chance. LSU hasn’t had a true speedster at RB with Durham’s talent in a minute. He has the wheels to take it to the house on any play.
That’s what Daniels had last year and what LSU needs to find again. Last year, 6.7% of LSU’s runs went for 20 or more yards. That led the Power Five. Without Daniels, that will be hard to repeat. But a breakout from Durham can get the Tigers close.
Durham doesn’t need to be a down-to-down back yet. LSU has veterans that know the scheme and know the system. Those guys will carry most of the load.
Durham can function as a true change-of-pace player. LSU can simplify the game and just let him run.
Don’t expect Durham to make a ton of noise early in the season, but he can certainly be a contributor down the stretch.
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