Michigan State Football: Previewing RB battle for 2022 spring game

The case for Simmons

Jordon Simmons, from Marietta, Ga., is the other running back from the 2020 class. He returns to Michigan State as the most recent 100-yard rusher still on the team, having put up 121 yards against Youngstown State.

Simmons was also the leading rusher from the 2020 team as a true freshman, showing the staff’s confidence in him. He has nearly 500 career yards with two seasons of eligibility remaining.

In Simmons’ other game where he had significant playing time, the Peach Bowl, he struggled, only having 23 yards on 16 carries. While there was a new starting offensive lineman for the game, Spencer Brown at right tackle, that cannot be entirely the reason. Pitt had a strong defensive line, as they are coached by Pat Narduzzi, a name many of you are familiar with.

Outlook

Simmons has some of the most experience as a Spartan of all returning running backs, but he has started before and MSU has looked to the portal for four more running backs since his 2020 season.

Simmons is a punishing power back with surprisingly good hands, with 11 catches and a touchdown to his name. Unfortunately, he has had his opportunities but has not put his stamp on the starting position. He will be another player who will see a lot of playing time against Western Michigan and Akron, but I do not expect to see much of him against Washington.

With an offensive line that is less experienced, MSU will need more of a dynamic back, and I don’t see Simmons fitting this role.