Michigan State is set to bolster its backfield for the 2026 season with the arrival of Marvis Parrish, a transfer from Western Kentucky who brings a blend of rushing power and receiving skill.
A Versatile Threat in the Backfield
Parrish arrived in East Lansing after a freshman campaign that saw him amass 576 rushing yards and 203 receiving yards for the Hilltoppers. The Valdosta native was a three‑star recruit whose only other scholarship offers came from Maryland and UMass, and he finished as the No. 7 high school prospect in Georgia’s 2025 class.
His skill set aligns with the vision of new offensive coordinator Nick Sheridan, who previously demonstrated an ability to integrate running backs into the passing game at his former stops. Sheridan’s scheme is expected to increase checkdown opportunities, a dimension that was missing under the previous coordinator.
The competition for the RB2 role will be fierce. Cam Edwards is projected to start, but Parrish will contend with a group that includes Jaziun Patterson, Zion Gist, Braylon Collier, Brandon Tullis, Makhi Frazier, Elijah Tau‑Tolliver, and several other scholarship athletes fighting for snaps.
Beyond the running back position, the depth chart also features names such as Brian Lindgren, Jalen Milroe, Alessio Milivojevic, Jam Miller, David Ellis and Aidan Chiles, all of whom could see increased involvement as the offense evolves under Sheridan’s direction.
If the new system clicks, Michigan State could see a more balanced attack that leverages Parrish’s dual‑threat capabilities, potentially reshaping the team’s identity on the field.