Note: Grades reflect a combination of film study, statistical output, and program experience. These are meant as evaluations – not criticisms.
Tahir Mills (Sr.)
Grade: A-
Context
Mills is embarking on his senior campaign and is making the necessary adjustments to be successful in the FCS. He spent three seasons at East Stroudsburg, playing in 30 games and rushing for 1,593 yards and 16 touchdowns.
Analysis
A balanced rusher who is capable of shedding tacklers and utilizing quick movements to dazzle defenders. He reads the game well, patiently waiting for gaps to open up then capitalizing on opportunities. The Ridley HS product isn’t afraid of contact either, and will wear out teams that consistently try to bring him down. Mills figures to be an instant impact player for YSU.
Ethan Wright (Sr.)
Grade: A-
Context
In his first season with YSU, Wright was named to the MVFC All-Newcomer Team and started seven contests. He carried the ball 136 times for 677 yards and 4 touchdowns. Further establishing his RB1 worthiness, he evolved into a solid receiving option, logging 114 yards. He suffered a season-ending injury vs Southern Illinois.
Analysis
Powerful playing style that punishes the opposition. He is not known for his explosiveness, but is more than capable of breaking away. When he gets downhill, it is incredibly difficult to take him down. Wright’s imposing nature is a nice complement to the speed and athleticism that Beau Brungard offers. A distinct “change-of-pace” back.
Jaden Gilbert (Soph.)
Grade: B+
Context
Gilbert saw his role increase significantly in 2024 as he played in 10 games and was entrusted with carrying the ball 18 times. He had an impressive 36-yard touchdown dash vs Valparaiso and showcased his elusiveness by averaging 6.5 yards per rushing attempt. He was also a valuable asset on the special teams unit, returning 7 kickoffs for 99 yards.
Analysis
Standing at 5-10, 180, Gilbert is a shifty back with breakaway speed and a diverse arsenal of moves, making him a nightmare in space. Despite the depth that YSU has at running back, he could find his way into the rotation and take another step forward in his development. He boasts a unique skillset, and his potential value as a receiving threat out of the backfield should not be overlooked.
TC Caffey (Jr.)
Grade: A-
Context
TC was one of the more eye-popping portal additions of the offseason for YSU. He spent three seasons at Ohio State and garnered Big Ten experience. Unfortunately for TC, injuries have severely hampered his potential and reduced the amount of reps he has taken over the years.
As a freshman, TC showed a lot of promise, carrying the ball on 10 occasions for 66 yards and a touchdown. That production was before he tore his ACL (October 2022) – he would also face injuries that kept him out of the 2023 and 2024 seasons.
Analysis
TC is an absolute work horse. He has a seemingly endless motor and appears to encourage contact. A bruiser that refuses to be taken down, TC crushes defenders at the point of attack and always keeps his legs churning, regardless of the situation he faces. Phenomenal pickup by the coaching staff.
Da'Shaun Whatley (Jr.)
Grade: B+
Context
Whatley is in a position similar to that of Jaden Gilbert. He is a talented running back who has tremendous upside, but is buried on the depth chart due to veteran experience ahead of him. In 2024, he played in all 12 contests and totaled 61 rushing yards and 15 receiving yards. He should expect an increased role, although how he performs in fall camp will likely determine his merit heading into 2025.
Analysis
Whatley bolts through open gaps and erupts to the endzone with remarkable speed. Nimble and athletic, he could evolve into a key rotational piece and overtake Gilbert in the RB room. He may not be able to match the volume of reps Mills/Caffey/Wright will receive, but he can certainly produce moments that will capture the attention of a passionate fanbase. If he stays true to himself and continues to trust the process, don’t be surprised if Whatley is able to shine in the fall.
Donald Barksdale (Fr.)
Grade: B+
Context
A native of Munhall, Pa., Barksdale was dominant at Steel Valley High School, eclipsing 5,000 career rushing yards and 76 touchdowns. He finished his career as the 19th all-time leading rusher in WPIAL history.
Analysis
Lethal threat out of the backfield who thrives on outside runs and can stretch a defense both horizontally and vertically. The most impressive element of his game may not even be his explosiveness; rather, his rapid footwork and knack for nasty cutback moves. This kid can catch lightning in a bottle whenever he wants to. A three-star prospect (247Sports) that is bound to make an impact in Youngstown.
Antuan Gardner (R-Fr.)
Grade: B+
Context
Throughout the spring, Gardner found himself firmly in the mix at running back and is ready to see more action in his second season with the ‘Guins. Out of Niles McKinley HS, Gardner was a First Team All-Ohio Division IV selection as a senior and was named NE-8 Conference Player of the Year. As a freshman at YSU, Gardner competed in three of the final four games of the season, contributing on special teams.
Analysis
Composed runner that reads the game well and manipulates defenders at the second level. Gardner also uses his size to his advantage, shaking off worn out adversaries and fighting for extra yardage. His potential is through the roof.
Taysear Williams-Clay (R-Fr.)
Grade: B
Context
Williams-Clay hails from Woodbridge, a high school located in Peninsula, Ohio. He was a two sport athlete, competing in both football and track and field. In football, Williams-Clay was an All-League and All-Ohio honoree.
Analysis
Determined and motivated, Williams-Clay is constantly trying to improve his craft and prides himself on toughness. He is insanely athletic, and is a project player that could be a dark horse in the running back competition.
Final Verdict
This is one of the better position groups on the roster and I honestly don’t think there is a weak link in this room. I expect experience to take control here in the coaches’ evaluations and doubt we’ll see much outside of the Mills/Wright/Caffey tandem unless there are injuries, which is always a possibility. Gilbert/Whatley/Gardner bolster depth and will compete for playing time. Barksdale/Williams-Clay continue to develop and learn the offensive system.
Everything you could ever ask for at the running back position is there – physicality, elusiveness, and big-play potential. The coaching staff clearly prioritized balance when constructing this room and believes that it will help them adapt week to week based on matchups. Fans should be excited to watch this stable of RBs.
