Michigan State Football: Previewing RB battle for 2022 spring game

The case for Eaglin

Donovan Eaglin, from Rosharon, Texas, comes into his sophomore campaign with six carries and 33 yards to his name. He was one of the final Mark Dantonio era recruits, being one of two running backs signed in the 2020 recruiting class, along with Jordon Simmons.

Eaglin stood out on special teams last year, earning co-special teams player of the week against Nebraska. Considering that this game was where Jayden Reed had a punt return that saved the game, being named a co-player of the week is high praise.

Despite playing all 13 games, Eaglin only saw the field on offense against Youngstown State. During the summer practices last year, Mel Tucker was very complimentary of Eaglin, calling him one of the most improved running backs in the stable.

Outlook

Despite him being the heaviest running back on the roster (235 pounds), he is surprisingly shifty. Ever since his signing, I have thought that Dantonio may have found one last gem in his final class. That being said, I don’t believe he will be the running back to deliver Michigan State this year.

I expect to see Eaglin on the field for the final quarter of the first two games, but any playing time outside of special teams is a steep climb for the Manvel product. Any playing time will be hard-earned, with seven scholarship running backs competing for snaps. He was a special teams standout last year and I won’t be surprised if his prowess there leads to him receiving more snaps if injuries start to play a toll on the team.