Logo from sportslogos.net
Is it possible for a group that was really good in 2022 to be even better in 2023?
For LSU’s running back room, it could certainly be the case.
The Tigers had four running backs combined for 1,583 yards and 27 touchdowns last season. Each of those backs returns as well as the addition of Logan Diggs from Notre Dame.
How much more will they improve?
Logan Diggs
The former Archbishop Rummel running back returns to the Bayou State after spending the last two seasons at Notre Dame, his freshman season under Brian Kelly.
Diggs comes back to Kelly’s offense looking to provide another bruising speed back. Diggs ran for just over 1,000 yards in his two years in South Bend with seven touchdowns. He ran for 100+ yards in a game on three occasions, all coming in 2022.
The Rummel standout will look to have a bigger role with the Tigers in 2023 to be able to showcase his combo of speed and power. His ability to catch passes out of the backfield should make him a strong contender for the starting spot heading into the season.
Noah Cain
Cain came back to Louisiana after starting his college career at Penn State. He rushed for 409 yards for the Tigers, including solid performances against UAB and Purdue. He also added 10 trips to the endzone while wearing the Purple and Gold.
Now with a full season under his belt, Cain will look to continue carving out a role for himself in a running back room that has become flooded with young talent.
Josh Williams
Williams was a key factor in the LSU running game last season, leading all running backs with 532 yards and six touchdowns on the season. He came up big on the road twice, getting 100+ yards against Florida and Arkansas.
He battled injury off and on during the year, but he possesses the ability to get out in space and make people miss. When he hits the second level, you’re going to have a hard time bringing him down.
I expect Josh Williams to build on his numbers from 2022 to have an explosive senior season with the Tigers.
Armoni Goodwin
Goodwin showed flashes of brilliance during the 2022 season, one of the most notable being the 47-yard touchdown that sealed the win over Mississippi State at home.
But the junior from Birmingham battled a ton of injuries that kept him out over a month in the heat of the season and his numbers reflect it. He finished the year with 267 yards and five touchdowns for the Tigers, including two scores against Southern in Week 2.
If Goodwin can stay healthy, he’s an explosive runner that does a lot of different things well.
Others to Watch
Trey Holly joined the Tigers after smashing the LHSAA career record for rushing yards in the state of Louisiana, but I’d imagine he redshirts in 2023 because of the crowded room. Also, Tre Bradford is another name to keep an eye on as a guy who could play a bit of receiver as well.