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Murray State managed just one win in 2024, staying competitive only in losses to Butler, Indiana State, and Illinois State. Statistical metrics were horrid, as the Racers ranked 107th in scoring offense (18.25 ppg) and 123rd in scoring defense (46.67 ppg). The ground attack was one of the few bright spots for Murray State – they averaged 145.4 rushing yards (65th).
The coaching staff worked diligently on the recruiting trail, signing the largest class in program history and upgrading the overall talent on the roster. 67 student-athletes are set to join Murray State, with 34 of those players taking their abilities to the offense, 30 to the defense, and three to special teams.
Head Coach Jody Wright put a heavy emphasis on the trenches, bringing in a combined 24 prospects on the offensive and defensive lines. Size and athleticism were the focal points of these recruits. Jaheer Foucault (6-6, 330), Carson Gilliland (6-8, 335), Daniel Cole (6-6, 322), Eric Kirkpatrick (6-4, 300), Thatcher Nagle (6-8, 320), and Thomas Zimbalatti (6-3, 315) are all listed at 300+ pounds coming out of high school, boosting developmental upside and providing the Murray State coaches with viable options across the board.
The front line on defense may not be as physically imposing, but there are some lengthy players that could evolve into legit threats in the MVFC. Nick Montik out of Elk River HS stands at 6-5, 240, and Rickshun Wilson (6-2, 300) is an absolute mammoth from the prep ranks. Other names to monitor include CJ Sanderson (6-3, 260) and Michael Tilmon (6-2, 275).
Murray State also retooled its skill positions. Quarterback Kaleb Bailey was rated as a three-star according to 247Sports after throwing for 2,382 yards and 33 touchdowns, while also rushing for 835 yards and nine touchdowns as a senior. His most productive year came in 2023 when he accumulated 3,665 yards and 40 touchdowns through the air. The Houston, Texas native is expected to compete immediately for the starting job.
At running back, Zayden Cook is prepared to emerge in the backfield. In 2024, Cook totaled 2,939 rushing yards, which is the sixth-highest mark in a single season in GHSA history. He passed up NFL players Nick Chubb and Jahmyr Gibbs on the list.
Rounding out the class is linebacker Spencer Conn, who was a two time All-State selection.
Head Coach Jody Wright boasts an extensive background, as he evolved his philosophy under the likes of Nick Saban and Kirby Smart. Prior to earning the job at Murray State, Wright was an assistant/tight ends coach for South Carolina. He also spent time at the NFL level with the New York Giants and the Cleveland Browns, helping in the development of Saquon Barkley and Nick Chubb. Wright is known for his recruiting prowess and ability to identify elite talent.
Just six key contributors return overall – and none on the offensive or defensive line – highlighting how dramatic the roster turnover has been. Jawaun Northington started the final six games last fall, rushing for 518 yards and 6 touchdowns on 111 carries. Safety Amari Wansley was credited with 57 tackles and 3 PBUs in 2024; he offers stability in the back end of the defense. Keshawn Washington (S), Davon Martin (CB), and J’Kalon Carter (WR) should be viewed as players with breakout potential.
Bold indicates home game
This schedule is one of the hardest in the entire FCS, with no room for error in the out of conference slate. Southeastern Louisiana at home could bode well for the Racers, as well as road tilts at Northern Iowa and Indiana State. Two wins seems realistic, though pulling off three would require an upset or two in MVFC play.
I truly believe that Murray State took a big step in the right direction this offseason, honing in on reconstructing the roster and attempting to build a contender in the MVFC. The proper blueprint seems to be in place, but it will take time for the coaching staff to recover from an abysmal 2024 campaign and develop high school talent both in the weight room and on the field. Retention is going to be huge for this program moving forward, especially if they want to push for a record close to .500 in the near future.
