Michigan State Football: 3 transfers Mel Tucker could target in portal

Running back Anthony Williams Jr. has already entered the portal for Michigan State and more players could soon follow.

The Michigan State running back production has been mediocre this season. Freshman Jordon Simmons has shown some flashes with his speed and explosiveness, but he is still raw. Connor Heyward has been decent, he still lacks the vision and short-area explosiveness needed to be an efficient Big Ten running back. Lastly, Elijah Collins has been non-existent this fall.

The 2021 recruiting class is bringing in a pair of talented backs in four-star Audric Estime and three-star in-state prospect Davion Primm. So one might think why does Michigan State need another running back?

Well, there is no such thing as too many athletes on offense. Harold Joiner was a four-star, top-150 ranked player as a prepster who had Michigan State in his top schools.

At Auburn, Joiner totaled 15 carries for 103 yards, with two touchdowns. Also, he caught six passes for 128 yards and a touchdown.

The 6-foot-4, 215-pound back is only a redshirt sophomore and he still possesses plenty of upside. Joiner would be given an opportunity to play right away at Michigan State given their struggles at running back.

Mel Tucker should take a chance on a former SEC back who previously had interest in playing at Michigan State.

Running back is not a glaring need for Michigan State given the talent coming in and the high ceiling it has at the position on the roster, but adding another back creates more competition. When players have someone on their heels pushing for their spot, it brings out the best in them.