MSU RB coach Effrem Reed explains Spartans' shift to 2-back system following Kenneth Walker III
The Michigan State backfield has some new faces in it this season. Kenneth Walker III left a pretty big hole, but it has been filled by a multitude of backs.
The Spartan RB coach, Effrem Reed spoke about how the transition to a committee in the backfield has been going. Wisconsin transfer Jalen Berger and Colorado transfer Jarek Broussard have been described as thunder and lightning by Reed.
“Right now, these guys are being consistent in practice,” said Reed. “We have more guys that can do a lot more things.”
Another bright spot in the backfield this season has been redshirt senior Elijah Collins. He played in eight games last season, and had 57 yards rushing with 1 touchdown against Akron on Saturday.
“Probably one of the best kids I’ve ever been around,” said Reed. “Obviously we want to ride 8 and 3 as much as we can, but I’m completely comfortable with Eli going in and running the football.”
Here’s everything that Reed said per Chris Solari of the Detroit Free Press and Matt Charboneau of the Detroit News:
MSU RB coach Effrem Reed calls Jalen Berger and Jarek Broussard “thunder and lightning,” as they mentioned previously. “Right now, these guys are being consistent in practice.”
— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) September 13, 2022
Reed says Broussard “was pressing a little” early in preseason camp until the second scrimmage. Had a breakout day that has carried forward.
— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) September 13, 2022
Reed calls Elijah Collins “probably one of the best kids I’ve ever been around” & earned playing time vs. Akron. Wants to give bigger role as season goes. “Obviously we want to ride 8 & 3 as much as we can, but I’m completely comfortable with Eli going in & running the football.”
— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) September 13, 2022
MSU RB coach Effrem Reed talking about going from 1 back (Kenneth Walker) to 2-man rotation (Berger/Broussard): “We have More guys that can do a lot more things.”
— Matt Charboneau (@mattcharboneau) September 13, 2022