K-State's Running Back Room in 2024: A Dynamic Duo -

K-State’s Running Back Room in 2024: A Dynamic Duo

As the 2024 college football season approaches, K-State’s running back room is poised to be one of the team’s greatest strengths, headlined by the proven workhorse DJ Giddens and the versatile newcomer Dylan Edwards. This combination offers the Wildcats a dynamic backfield that can adapt to various game scenarios, making them a formidable opponent in the Big 12.

DJ Giddens: The Reliable Workhorse

DJ Giddens, coming off a stellar 2023 season with 1,226 rushing yards and 323 receiving yards, enters 2024 as the undisputed leader of the K-State backfield. His consistency and durability make him a central figure in the Wildcats’ offensive strategy. Giddens’ ability to grind out tough yards between the tackles and break off big plays has earned him the trust of the coaching staff, and he’s expected to carry the bulk of the rushing load this season. With Giddens potentially amassing upwards of 1,600 yards, he could finish as one of the top rushers in K-State history, potentially ranking third all-time in career rushing yards for the program.

Dylan Edwards: The Versatile Playmaker

Joining Giddens in the backfield is Dylan Edwards, a transfer from Colorado who brings a different skill set to the Wildcats. Edwards is not only a threat in the traditional running game but also possesses the ability to line up in the slot as a receiver, making him a versatile weapon. The coaching staff envisions using Edwards in a variety of ways, from jet sweeps to bubble screens, and even as a potential kick returner. His versatility could see him touching the ball around 130 times this season, with a split between carries and receptions.

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How Will the Workload Be Managed?

The big question heading into the season is how the workload will be distributed between Giddens and Edwards. Giddens is expected to handle the majority of the rushing attempts, likely taking about 60% of the carries. Meanwhile, Edwards will be used strategically to exploit matchups and keep defenses guessing. There may be games where Edwards’ role increases, especially if opponents scheme effectively against Giddens, forcing K-State to adapt by leveraging Edwards’ versatility.

A Balanced Attack

The 2024 season promises to showcase a more balanced K-State offense, with the running game playing a pivotal role. The Wildcats are no longer the pass-heavy, air-raid team of the past; instead, they are built to control the game on the ground. The presence of two talented backs in Giddens and Edwards allows the coaching staff to mix up their play-calling, keeping defenses on their heels.

In conclusion, K-State’s running back room in 2024 is not just about one star player but about a complementary duo that can change the game in multiple ways. DJ Giddens’ power and consistency paired with Dylan Edwards’ speed and versatility give the Wildcats a unique advantage. As the season unfolds, fans can expect to see both backs playing crucial roles in K-State’s quest for success in the Big 12.