FCS 2025: The Unstoppable Powerhouses in the Running Back Arena
As the eagerly anticipated 2025 college football season approaches, fervor surrounds the countdown, now standing at less than 100 days. In anticipation, FCS Football Central on SI has constructed its vivacious ranking of the Top 10 Returning FCS Running Backs, capturing all the power, agility, and sheer talent that awaits fans this fall.
Painting the Field: The Selection Process
The meticulous selection involved evaluating multiple facets such as film analysis, on-field heroics, accolades, Pro Football Focus (PFF) grades, and the profound knowledge of seasoned FCS experts. Excitingly, the list omits FBS transfers with no FCS experience, focusing purely on those who’ve already enthralled fans.
A Closer Look at the Top Contenders
10. Luke Yoder - Lehigh Mountain Hawks
Emerging as a beacon for the Lehigh Mountain Hawks, Yoder’s dynamic presence revived the team’s FCS playoff dreams. His staggering 1,660 yards and 15 touchdowns in just 22 games establish him as a face of excellence entering the coming season.
9. Julius Davis - Montana State Bobcats
Despite an injury-marred previous season, Davis showcased potential via 227 yards and three touchdowns on limited carries. With a fully charged return anticipated for 2025, fans eagerly await him competing again for the Bobcats.
8. Mari Adams - Davidson Wildcats
No longer in the shadows, Adams, with consecutive 1,000-yard seasons, continues to defy expectations. His competitive spirit and consistency promise another stellar campaign, fortifying his status as an essential offensive mainstay.
7. David Avit - Villanova Wildcats
Setting records as the CAA Offensive Rookie of the Year, Avit’s rookie prowess saw him claim 923 rushing yards and nine touchdowns, further supported by additional receiving yards. 2025 holds a promising spotlight for Avit under Villanova’s strategic plays.
6. Julius Loughridge - South Dakota State Jackrabbits
Transitioning from Fordham to the Jackrabbits wasn’t just a move but a statement. Loughridge penned history with over 3,000 rushing yards and numerous accolades, now setting his sights on propelling South Dakota State to newfound heights.
5. Adam Jones - Montana State Bobcats
Jones captured imaginations with a historic freshman season. His record-setting performances at Montana State, including a memorable 93-yard touchdown, forecast an even grander role in 2025, fueling the Bobcat’s offensive engine.
4. Roland Dempster - Stony Brook Seawolves
In a tale of resilience and revival, Dempster’s brilliance salvaged Stony Brook’s fortunes from a winless past. With 1,332 rushing yards last season and formidable determination, he eyes leading the charge for another triumphant postseason.
3. Charles Pierre Jr. - South Dakota Coyotes
Pierre’s prowess broke barriers, becoming the Coyotes’ first 1,000-yard player in their Division I journey. His impressive stats and FCS All-American inclusion position him as a pivotal asset ready for enhanced contributions this season.
2. Eli Gillman - Montana Grizzlies
Gillman’s electrifying performances, underscored by a Jerry Rice Award and two significant All-Big Sky seasons, amplify his stature as an unyielding presence set to grace 2025 with more record-breaking achievements.
1. Jamar Curtis - Sacramento State Hornets
Leading Sacramento State’s transformative journey, Curtis takes the spotlight as the top returning FCS running back. His staggering career totals depict a legacy in the making, warranting tantalizing game days under the Hornets’ banner.
The Season Awaits: Anticipation in the Air
With thrilling potential etched across each name on the list, this assembly of talent guarantees an electrifying spectacle of football prowess. As stated in Sports Illustrated, fans, enthusiasts, and squads across the board eagerly await the kickoff whistle of the 2025 FCS season, hoping to witness specters of glory unfold with every play.
