This season, Southern Miss will have to replace Ito Smith, who is the second all-time leading rusher in Southern Miss history at 4,606 yards and their all-time all-purpose yards leader. Last year alone, Smith ran for 1,483 yards and 13 touchdowns and caught for another 396 yards and five touchdowns through the air.
Rather than trying to find the next Ito Smith, the prime focus should be on duplicating Smith’s numbers. This year the Golden Eagles have at least four running backs, three of whom are seniors, who are capable of doing that. The real question is determining how to manage a crowded running back room.