Mississippi State lands one of the top running backs in the transfer portal

Mississippi State football's quest to rebuild the roster under head coach Jeff Lebby continues. One under the radar position MSU was hoping to address through the transfer portal was running back, and on Tuesday night, the Bulldogs got an early Christmas present...

Former South Alabama running back Fluff Bothwell commits to Mississippi State Bulldogs out of transfer portal

Mississippi State got some fantastic news on Christmas Eve when former South Alabama running back Fluff Bothwell announced he was transferring to the Bulldogs. As a true freshman in 2024, Bothwell led the Jaguars in rushing with 832 yards and 13 touchdowns on an impressive 7.5 yards per carry.

The Oneonta native was a little known prospect coming out of high school, choosing South Alabama over a handful of Group of 5 and FCS offers. But he quickly made it clear that he had been undervalued as a recruit. The 5-11, 219 Bothwell is a 4-star transfer prospect and is rated as the third-best running back in the transfer portal. He'll have three years of eligibility remaining.

Fluff Bothwell is a perfect fit for the Mississippi State offense

Fluff Bothwell is an incredibly talented young running back that still has his best years ahead of him, and he can thrive at Mississippi State. The Jeff Lebby offense is already designed to put up big rushing numbers, and Bothwell specifically can play a needed role for the Bulldogs.

Between known returnees Johnnie Daniels, Seth Davis, and Xavier Gayten, State does not have a power back on the roster. It is also possible that starter and leading rusher Davon Booth could now return following a new NCAA ruling, but if he does, he too is more of a speed back as opposed to a between the tackles runner.

Bothwell immediately becomes the most physical runner of the group, which will make him ideal for short-yardage and goal line situations. Not to limit him, however. He's more than capable of being an every down back. But Lebby prefers to have a rotation in the backfield, and having a variety of skillsets is a plus. This is a great addition for Mississippi State, as Fluff Bothwell should provide a major boost to the Bulldog offense.