Previewing Indiana Football's Running Back Room

Ty Son Lawton and Kaelon Black

Kaelon Black and Ty Son Lawton have a built-in advantage, having played in the Shanahan offense at James Madison. By all accounts, Black is the most explosive member of the group. He showed that in the spring game he averaged, nearly ten yards per rush attempt. That said, all four running backs are similar in size.

All four backs are in the 5-foot-9 and 210-pound range, so none of them have the size to carry the ball 25-30 times per game anyway. Black looks to lead the running back committee because of his speed and ability to catch the ball out of the backfield.

Black led the Dukes in rushing and was fourth in receiving. His ability to score from anywhere on the field and catch the football gives him an advantage over the other running backs.

Ty Son Lawton was James Madison's second-leading rusher last year, adding 19 receptions to his resume in 2023. His experience in the Shanahan offense showed in the spring game. Lawton doesn't have Black's speed, but he runs between the tackles well and can catch the football out of the backfield.

Both running backs would have led the Hoosiers in rushing last year; expect them to do it this year.