Michigan State Football: Projected 2-deep depth chart after spring 2019

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EAST LANSING, MI – AUGUST 31: Connor Heyward #11 of the Michigan State Spartans scores a third quarter touchdown while playing the Utah State Aggies at Spartan Stadium on August 31, 2018 in East Lansing, Michigan. Michigan State won the game 38-31. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) /

Running Back

Starting running back: La’Darius Jefferson
Backup: Connor Heyward/Eli Collins/Anthony Williams

Losing LJ Scott was a tough loss, but it won’t change the way the offense looks, especially since he had such a poor 2018 season which was filled with injuries.

Connor Heyward returns as the top rusher from last season, accounting for 529 yards and five touchdowns while catching 32 passes for 249 yards. He was effective behind a poor offensive line and averaging 4.5 yards per carry isn’t all that bad considering the circumstances. Many believe he will take over as the No. 1 back, but the ceiling, in my opinion, is higher for La’Darius Jefferson.

The sophomore, and former high school quarterback, had 255 yards and two touchdowns as a freshman, but only averaged 3.3 yards per carry. He has a bit more elusiveness than Heyward and may be more of a natural runner while the former can catch passes more effectively out of the backfield.

Behind Jefferson, I see Heyward, redshirt freshman Eli Collins and true freshman Anthony Williams contending for time.

Williams looked great during the spring game as a speedy back with plenty of vision and elusiveness and Collins, too, has speed that could complement a Heyward/Jefferson combo.

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