East Lansing, Michigan, August 19, 2025
News Summary
The running back competition at Michigan State University is becoming increasingly competitive with the 2025 season approaching. Key players have departed, leaving a mix of returning talent and new recruits vying for the starting spot. Elijah Tau-Tolliver stands out as a senior transfer with impressive stats from last season, while true freshmen Jace Clarizio and others look to make their mark. The Spartans face significant changes in the lineup, with fans eager to see how this competition unfolds.
East Lansing, Michigan – The race to secure the starting running back position at Michigan State University has intensified as the team prepares for the 2025 season. With key players departing and a roster filled with potential yet relatively inexperienced candidates, the running back situation is shaping up to be one of the most pressing questions for the Spartans heading into the new season.
The team lost several impactful players, including Nathan Carter, who played 12 games with 10 starts, achieving 499 rushing yards and five touchdowns. He has signed with the Atlanta Falcons. Kay’ron Lynch-Adams, another vital contributor, had 113 carries for 649 yards and two touchdowns before signing as an undrafted free agent with the Carolina Panthers. Additionally, there is Joseph Martinez, who appeared in 9 games but had limited impact with just one carry for one yard.
The current roster features returning players like Makhi Frazier, Brandon Tullis, Chris Williams, and Jaxon McCaig. Frazier, a sophomore, participated in 9 games last season, totaling 21 yards on 7 carries. Tullis, also a sophomore, had a similar role, with 20 yards on 7 carries over 8 games. On the other hand, Williams, a redshirt junior, has yet to see game action, while McCaig, a redshirt freshman, sat out last year.
In addition to returning players, Michigan State has added new talent to the running back room. Elijah Tau-Tolliver, a senior transfer from Sacramento State, is emerging as the most experienced option with an impressive 950 yards and 7 touchdowns from 184 carries across 11 games last season. The hiring of three true freshmen: Jace Clarizio, Zion Gist, and Darrin Jones Jr. has also sparked interest among fans and analysts alike. Clarizio, a four-star recruit and an early enrollee, notably flipped commitment from Michigan State to Alabama and back again.
In terms of production, last season only two running backs, Carter and Lynch-Adams, accounted for a staggering 94% of the running back carries, emphasizing the drastic change this season where a broader range of players is likely to contribute. Early forecasts suggest that Tau-Tolliver may take the starting role initially, with predictions hinting that Clarizio could emerge as the leading rusher by game 7 or earlier. Tullis is expected to be utilized primarily in short-yardage scenarios, while Frazier has shown improvement during the fall camp that may solidify his position as a contributing back.
Michigan State’s head coach has commended the offseason development of Clarizio, underscoring his successful transition to college football. The competition among running backs remains fluid, with players like Frazier and Tullis making strides as the season approaches.
The first game of the season is scheduled soon, and fans are eager to see how the battles for the pivotal running back position pan out as new players look to make their mark on the field.
FAQ
Who are the main competitors for the running back position at Michigan State for the 2025 season?
The primary competitors include Elijah Tau-Tolliver, Jace Clarizio, Makhi Frazier, and Brandon Tullis. Tau-Tolliver is expected to start, while Clarizio is projected to be a leading rusher as the season progresses.
What was the contribution of the departing players last season?
Nathan Carter and Kay’ron Lynch-Adams accounted for 94% of the running back carries last season, leaving a significant gap to fill in the upcoming season.
What impact do new players have on the running back roster?
The addition of experienced transfer Elijah Tau-Tolliver and promising freshmen Jace Clarizio, Zion Gist, and Darrin Jones Jr. adds depth and potential dynamism to the position, crucial for the team’s success this season.
Key Features of the 2025 Running Back Competition
| Player | Height | Weight | Status | Last Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nathan Carter | N/A | N/A | Departed | 499 yards, 5 TDs |
| Kay’ron Lynch-Adams | N/A | N/A | Departed | 649 yards, 2 TDs |
| Elijah Tau-Tolliver | 6-1 | 211 | Senior Transfer | 950 yards, 7 TDs |
| Jace Clarizio | 5-10 | 208 | True Freshman | N/A |
| Makhi Frazier | 5-10 | 218 | Returning | 21 yards |
| Brandon Tullis | 6-1 | 227 | Returning | 20 yards |
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Additional Resources
- Spartans Wire: MSU Football Running Backs Position Battle
- Google Search: Michigan State football
- Sports Illustrated: Caden Waye & Keith Bhonapha
- Google Scholar: College Football
- ESPN: Nathan Carter
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Running Backs in Football
- Detroit News: Air Force Transfer David Santiago
- Google News: Michigan State Spartans
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