LSU Country

State of the LSU Running Back Room

Tigers return sophomore Armoni Goodwin to the rotation this week, adds significant depth ahead of serious matchup.

Zack Nagy

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LSU’s offensive inconsistency has been a major takeaway seven games into the season. Unable to get into a rhythm with their rushing attack, it has made their play calling rather one-dimensional, but after consecutive successful games on the ground things are beginning to trend upward.

With Armoni Goodwin sidelined, former walk-on Josh Williams has really taken over the heavy lifting in the backfield. As LSU puts the final touches on their game plan for Ole Miss, it appears they’ll be returning Goodwin.

Here’s a look at the current state of the LSU running back room:

Josh Williams - Junior

The former walk-on has seen his number called on a number of occasions, always providing the Tigers with key snaps when needed. Williams has seen his usage skyrocket this season. Rather than serve as the main third down back, he’s taken on starting duties, becoming the heartbeat of the backfield.

In a loaded running back room that many expected to see either John Emery or Noah Cain as the starters, Williams has proven he is capable of doing more than the dirty work for this team, taking over starting duties over the last few weeks.

Look for Williams to continue battling it out for key snaps despite Goodwin’s return this week. Earning a scholarship during his time with LSU, Williams has shown he’s willing to put it all on the line, showing his grit each and every time he steps on the field.

Armoni Goodwin - Sophomore

Goodwin is set to return this week after being cleared to practice from his “significant” hamstring injury. Labeled the Tigers’ starting running back this season, the sophomore standout was looking at a big season before injury sidelined him.

Now looking to be back on the field this weekend against No. 7 Ole Miss, look for Goodwin to gradually get back into the rotation. With a handful of guys who can carry the load, this squad is in no rush for Goodwin to hurry back and takeover the heavy lifting.

John Emery - Senior

Emery ended spring camp looking like a true RB1 for the Tigers. After missing the first few games of the season due to academics, this coaching staff has incorporated Emery in select situations this season, specifically when Goodwin went down.

Coming into spring, his entire body and demeanor changed. Looking bulked up and making smart decisions on the football field, Emery had all the makings of being the Tigers' starter in their season opener against Florida State, but a suspension held that back.

Though Emery’s usage is down, he remains a rotational piece of this LSU offense. A few fumbles along the way has stunted his growth and progression, but head coach Brian Kelly has been adamant about him being a key piece to their offense.

Noah Cain - Junior

The first-year Tiger and Penn State transfer came to Baton Rouge with this coaching staff expecting big things. Throughout his stint in Happy Valley, Cain accumulated 806 rushing yards for 12 touchdowns along with 26 catches and 166 receiving yards in 24 games with the Nittany Lions.

But Cain hasn’t been used as anticipated so far. On the field in select moments, he’s shined when given opportunity, but it’s been a rollercoaster ride for him. He remains towards the bottom of the depth chart, and with such a loaded room, his opportunities have been limited.

As the season goes on, look for Kelly and this coaching staff to incorporate the Baton Rouge native in the offense a tad more. When given opportunity, he’s flourished, and can give a significant boost to this running back room as the season winds down. 

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Zack Nagy
ZACK NAGY

Zack Nagy is the Managing Editor and Publisher of LSU Country, a Sports Illustrated Publication. Nagy has covered Tiger Football, Basketball, Baseball and Recruiting, looking to keep readers updated on anything and everything involving LSU athletics. 

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