The LSU Tigers had a big win over the Arkansas Razorbacks, and the freshman running back was the star of the show for the Tigers.
Caden Durham, a former four-star recruit in the 2024 recruiting class, was once the 88th-overall recruit in the country. Durham signed on with the Tigers as the fifth-overall running back in the class and the 14th-best player in the state of Texas. The running back has been nothing short of excellent for the LSU Tigers throughout the 2024 season thus far.
Durham was not a major part of the offense in the first few games, recording no carries against USC and just four touches against Nicholls. The freshman stepped up against South Carolina, carrying the football 11 times for 98-yards and two scores. Durham also scored once against UCLA, and twice against South Alabama.
#LSU RB Caden Durham has unlocked the rushing attack for the Bayou Bengals.
The freshman phenom is taking over in Year 1 with the offense clicking on all cylinders.
Saturday Night:
– 21 carries
– 101 yards
– 3 TDsThe 2024 Season: 62 carries, 382 yards + 6 TDs
Taking over. pic.twitter.com/NEY8MwM1Au
— Zack Nagy (@znagy20) October 20, 2024
Caden Durham gets the the hat trick!!
The Tigers freshman running back reaches the endzone for the third time tonight!
LSU-34
Arkansas-10— 104.5 ESPN (@1045espn) October 20, 2024
During the big win over Arkansas, the LSU Tigers leaned upon Durham and gave the running back a career-high 21 carries. Durham made the most of his carries, recording 101-yards and three touchdowns against the Razorbacks defense. The running back was also a big part of the pass protection calls for the LSU Tigers in the second-half of play.
Originally, the LSU staff struggled to find ways to incorporate Durham into the lineup given the depth. But between injuries and the success of Durham in his limited chances early on, the running back has carved out a significant role. Moving forward, the LSU staff is going to continue to develop plays and concepts around the running back in an attempt to utilize his open-field prowess.
LSU Tigers Offense Leans Upon Freshman Running Back Caden Durham
With Durham leading the LSU Tigers out of the backfield moving forward, the offense could continue to put up 30-point performances with ease.
For the LSU staff, Durham is a dynamic running back that packs quite the punch inside of a 5-foot-9-inch frame. Between the speed, receiving ability, and field vision, the LSU Tigers staff is going to continue to find different ways to utilize Durham to his maximum potential.
For the running back, making the most of the given opportunities is going to continue to be the name of the game. Durham was given very limited touches early this season, but provided a burst of energy off of the bench that the staff loved. After recording 86-yard and 71-yard gains against South Alabama, Durham solidified himself as a contributor for the Tigers offense.
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