Mississippi State football is set to begin the Jeff Lebby-era in less than two weeks, as they'll kick-off the 2024 season August 31. The Bulldogs are expected to have a strong ground game in their new offensive attack, and they'll have several options to tote the rock.
Here's a look at the running back room entering the season...
Who makes up Mississippi State's running back room?
Utah State-transfer Davon Booth was a big addition for MSU out of the portal. Booth ran for 805 yards and six TDs at 6.7 yards per rush in 2023 while playing in largely the same offense as MSU will run under Lebby. Jeffery Pittman and Keyvone Lee return after backup roles last season. And JUCO-transfer Johnnie Daniels joins in after running for over 1,200 yards and 15 TDs for Copiah-Lincoln CC.
Reasons for optimism in Mississippi State's running backs
Mississippi State should have plenty of depth in the backfield. Booth, Pittman, Lee, and Daniels should give them four viable options as ball-carriers. Their styles should compliment each other as well. For example, Booth is incredibly explosive while Lee is a strong between-the-tackles runner. Jeff Lebby has primarily utilized a "running back by committee" approach with his offenses, and he should be able to do that again at State.
Reasons for concern with Mississippi State's running backs
What we don't know is whether or not this RB room is made up of guys who can play at a high level in the SEC. Davon Booth was very good for Utah State last season, but the Mountain West isn't the SEC. Pittman and Lee combined for just 343 yards and one TD in 2023, and Daniels has only played in JUCO. That's not to say that no one from this group can't become a stud in the SEC. In fact, they should produce good numbers by virtue of Lebby's offense. But whether or not any of them can be game-changers is to be seen.