2021 LSU Football By Position: Running Backs

LSU was blessed during their 2019 national title run to have the every-down production of Clyde Edwards-Helaire.

Last season, a few runners had their chances to fill the void left by the Kansas City first rounder.

Who will step up in 2021?

Tyrion Davis-Price (6-1, 231)

A physical, downhill runner, the Baton Rouge product had 446 yards and three TD’s in ’20 , adding 8 catches for 47 yards. His 104 yards rushing vs. Arkansas helped LSU eek out a 27-24 win. Much like former LSU runner Darrel Williams, another Chiefs back these days, TDP is a solid if not spectacular back who simply produces when his number is called.

John Emery, Jr. (5-11, 215)

The explosive former Destrehan star managed 378 yards on 5 per carry and three TD’s with 14 grabs for 73 yards. He has lower body strength, breakaway speed, great burst, superb feet and good vision.

As a junior, Emery is a much more mature version of the talent who first stepped foot on campus. Perhaps he is ready for a starring role.

Armoni Goodwin (5-8, 190)

The four-star ’21 signee out of Trussville, Alabama missed most of 2019 with MCL and ACL injuries. In 2020, he bounced back with 1,424 yards (9.3 average) and 18 touchdowns.

Got speed? Goodwin is Alabama’s 60-meter record holder with a 6.82 time and runs 11 seconds flat in the 100 meters.

Low center of gravity and a sprinter’s quick burst through the hole make Goodwin exciting. He keeps his feet churning and has excellent power for his size, willing to finish off runs with aggression.

Corey Kiner (5-10, 205, 4.44)

The Mr. Ohio Football 2020 was a four-year starter at Roger Bacon High and the first LSU signee from Cincinnati since Spencer Ware. Kiner posted 7,130 yards and 116 touchdowns.

A very polite young man and a hard worker, Kiner is a very intelligent, patient runner. His mature approach could make him an instant college contributor.

Tre Bradford ( 6’0-190, 4.4)

Seeing snaps later in his true freshman campaign, he posted 58 yards (5.8/carry) and three catches for 13 yards. Arrested Dec. 23rd following alleged theft at Walmart for shoplifting, his status is a question mark moving forward.

Josh Williams (5-9, 195)

His 88 rushing yards last season were a pleasant surprise since he arrived as preferred walk-on from Houston, Texas. He is a good special teamer who will pounce on any opportunities from scrimmage.

The running back room at LSU appears to lack a can’t-miss star but the material is there to complement what should be an improved offense with a more consistent passing game and more experienced offensive line.

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Click here for LSU roster analysis by position for 2021.