Spartans Pin Hopes on a Revamped Running Back Corps
Michigan State’s football program is banking on a deep and experienced stable of running backs as it prepares for the upcoming season, a unit that coaches describe as the team’s most potent offensive weapon.
At the helm of that transformation is new running backs coach Devon Spalding, who arrives from Wisconsin and Youngstown State with a reputation for developing versatile rushers.
The Spartans will lean heavily on Cam Edwards, a UConn transfer who exploded for 1,240 yards and 15 touchdowns in 2025, a performance that has positioned him as the clear No. 1 back.
Joining Edwards are several complementary pieces: true freshman Marvis Parrish, who topped 576 yards and added 203 receiving yards at Western Kentucky, and Jaziun Patterson, a fifth‑year senior who previously split time as Iowa’s RB2 and RB3.
Brandon Tullis, the leading returning rusher with 301 yards last season, is expected to handle short‑yardage and goal‑line duties, while portal addition Kenneth Williams brings a knack for big plays, having broken a 65‑yard touchdown run in spring practice.
The depth chart also includes high‑3‑star prospect Jace Clarizio, still recovering from a calf injury that kept him sidelined last year, and Zion Gist, a second‑year scout‑team standout who earned Offensive Player of the Week honors.
Coaches say the line’s growth, led by left tackle Ben Murawski and center Conner Moore, should give Edwards the protection he needs to showcase his vision and explosiveness.
With four primary backs and a host of specialists ready to contribute, the position group is being viewed as a cornerstone of Michigan State’s offensive identity heading into the new campaign.