By Mark Pszonak
Everyone knows about Penn State’s returning running backs, plus the annual stockpile of talent that Ohio State has at the position, but another school should be mentioned as one of the top running back rooms in the Big Ten.
Minnesota has assembled a dynamic group that has the potential to lead the Gophers to a big season. Leading the way is Darius Taylor, who if not for injuries, would already be considered one of the top running backs in the country. Over the last two seasons, which has totaled 18 games, he has rushed for 1,785 yards and 15 touchdowns, while grabbing 65 receptions for 442 yards and two touchdowns.
While his yards-per-carry average went down from 5.8 to 4.8 last season, that was more due to offensive line inadequacies. The Gophers hope to have fixed that with three offensive line additions via the transfer portal. On top of that, they will enter the 2025 seasons with question marks at the quarterback position, which should make Taylor the focal point of the offense early and often.
But Taylor isn’t the only running back the Gophers will rely on in 2025. As an insurance policy for Taylor, A.J. Turner (Marshall) was signed via the transfer portal. Turner enjoyed a breakout season in 2024 with the Herd, rushing for 864 yards and six touchdowns while averaging a nation’s leading 8.3 yards per carry. Considering Taylor’s injury history, this was one of the smartest portal signings of the cycle.
The transfer additions didn’t stop with Turner though, as the Gophers also signed Cam Davis (Washington), a veteran who rushed for 1,093 yards and 15 touchdowns during his Huskies’ career. He also showcased his pass receiving skills by grabbing 52 passes for 434 yards. Davis adds experience and leadership, as proven by him being a team captain at Washington during the 2024 season.
More Sports News
The Gophers may need to rely on their running game substantially in 2025. While this may not be the perfect scenario, they are ready to pound the ball if it becomes a necessity due to inconsistent quarterback play. The running backs at Penn State and Ohio State will get more attention at the start of the season, but the group in Minneapolis has the potential to quickly establish themselves as also being elite.
There is reason for Minnesota fans to be hopeful for a big season. Because if the quarterback situation turns out to be better than expected, and first-time starter Drake Lindsey excels, then the Gophers suddenly have a balanced offense that will make substantial noise in the Big Ten. That will take time to figure out, but in the meantime the Gophers can rely on their powerful running game to keep the ball moving.
