Photo courtesy of Florida State athletics
Despite losing its leading rusher from a season ago, the running back position should be one of strength for Florida State.
The Seminoles don’t have a ton of bodies at the position, but have versatility. Treshaun Ward is the leading returning rusher for the Seminoles.
Our position preview series continues with a look at the backfield:
Running Backs on the Roster:
Treshaun Ward, RS Soph.
Lawrance Toafili, RS Soph.
Trey Benson, RS Soph.
CJ Campbell, RS Fr. (walk-on)
Rodney Hill, Fr.
Analysis
Florida State created the identity of a run-first team last season with the likes of Jashaun Corbin, Treshaun Ward, Lawrance Toafili and DJ Williams. The four running backs combined for 266 carries, 1,612 yards and 13 touchdowns.
Heading into the 2022 season, the Seminoles will be without Corbin (departed for the NFL) and Williams (transferred to Arizona). However, Florida State added a veteran presence to the position group in Oregon redshirt sophomore Trey Benson.
Initially, many were nervous about the acquisition of the Greenville, Miss. native who suffered a severe knee injury in December 2020. His only statistical output with the Ducks was during the 2021 season when he had six carries for just 22 yards and one touchdown.
However, during the Seminoles’ Garnet and Gold Spring Game, Benson recorded a game-high 77 rushing yards on seven carries. He showcased his quickness and ability to finish through contact.
The Seminoles should be in good hands with this running back position group. Ward led the ACC in yards per carry last season while Toafili, when healthy, is a big play waiting to happen. Combined, the group has speed, power and the ability to catch the ball out of the backfield.
