Kerryon Johnson

Johnson began the 2016 season as the starter for the Tigers, posting two 100-yard rushing outputs over the first five games of the year. A minor ankle injury in the middle of the season caused him to lose his spot to Kamryn Pettway, though there was still plenty of ball to go around, as Johnson ended up rushing for 895 yards and 11 touchdowns on the ground during the 2016 campaign. Johnson will likely remain on the wrong end of the timeshare between himself and Pettway heading into the year, though both backs should figure prominently in the run-pass option offense of coach Guz Malzahn. Steadier play at quarterback from Baylor transfer Jarrett Stidham could also open up the running game for Johnson, who showed a nose for the end zone last season.