Connor Heyward was absent from Michigan State’s win over Indiana, leading to speculation that the running back may be considering a decision to transfer.

Heyward led the Spartans in carries (118) and rushing yards (529) in 2018. Unfortunately, he has seen his role greatly reduced this season due to the emergence of Elijah Collins.

Entering Saturday’s game, Heyward had carried the ball just 24 times with Collins earning the starting role and 61 carries on the season. Also of note, Heyward played in the first four games of the season which would be the maximum he can play in and still retain a year of eligibility under the new redshirt rule.

However, head coach Mark Dantonio addressed Heyward’s absence after the game. According to Dantonio, Heyward’s absence was due to a personal matter.

Matt Wenzel with MLive shared Dantonio’s comments:

Early Saturday afternoon, Heyward had sent out a brief, three-word tweet that only served to increase speculation. Now, it appears that Heyward’s tweet was likely aimed at the personal matter and not something else:

Heyward, a junior, has rushed for 618 yards and five touchdowns during his Spartans career.