Spring Preview: Penguins Looking to Establish More Consistent Ground Game

Different Approach to Run Scheme

One of the most drastic changes that came along with the hire of Mike Yurcich at offensive coordinator was the running game and how YSU utilized its talent at the tailback position. Under former offensive coordinator Troy Rothenbuhler, the Penguins emphasized feeding their running backs and punishing teams with physicality.

Leaning on the legs of Beau Brungard and a one-two combo of Ethan Wright and Tyshon King, Rothenbuhler’s system was reliant on time of possession and maintaining control of the clock, as YSU ranked first in the FCS in time of possession (36:11).

While this method was effective in games such as North Dakota, where the Penguins scored 41 points thanks to a 334-yard rushing effort, the inability to generate explosive plays limited the offense, contributing to a frustrating 2024 campaign that saw YSU average just 5.5 yards per play.

When Mike Yurcich joined the program, the philosophy around the running back position completely shifted. The focus went to Beau Brungard and surrounding him with explosive weapons.

This change led to fewer carries for tailbacks but a noticeable increase in their involvement in the passing game. Top running back Jaden Gilbert is a prime example of this, as he had 96 rushing attempts for 670 yards and three touchdowns, but also ranked third on the team with 412 receiving yards.

The rushing attack was stagnant early last season as the offensive line adjusted to a new run scheme. But once things started to click, the Penguin offense hit a different gear, maximizing Jaden Gilbert’s explosive running style and carving out a distinct role for Ethan Wright as well.

If the offensive line continues to grow within Yurcich’s system, the Penguins’ ground game has the potential to become far more explosive in 2026.

Contrast of Experience and Youth

With Ethan Wright gone because of graduation, sixth-year senior Tahir Mills figures to have a larger role after totaling 46 rushing yards and one touchdown. Mills had a successful stint (2022-24) at East Stroudsburg, earning PSAC Football Eastern Division All-Conference Offensive First Team honors and rushing for 843 yards and eight touchdowns in 2024.

A balanced rusher with quick footwork, Mills should provide leadership and set the tone for the YSU backfield.

Donald Barksdale (R-Fr.) and Antuan Gardner (Soph.) are a pair to monitor this spring.

Barksdale redshirted last fall, seeing action in two games and rushing for 44 yards on four carries vs Murray State. At Steel Valley High School, Barksdale put up insane numbers, finishing his career with 5,270 rushing yards and 76 rushing touchdowns.

His explosiveness and variety of moves were evident in his reps against the Racers, but the big question is whether he can crack the rotation and make a larger impact next season.

Gardner is more of a powerful, change-of-pace back who showed a lot of promise last season. Competing in 12 games and rushing nine times for 39 yards and a touchdown, Gardner will also look for increased playing time.

Senior D’Shaun Whatley rounds out the running back room. In 2023, Whatley was one of the Penguins’ top reserve RB options, going for 110 rushing yards and a touchdown on 19 carries.