American, C-USA and MAC

In true offseason fashion, we start with a genuine dart throw. Every notable running back from the American in 2024—and I mean every single one —either has since transferred or used up their eligibility.

So, which program do you trust?

I'll lean toward Memphis, which returns Greg Desrosiers Jr. and Sutton Smith . The former ended last season in impressive fashion, and the latter is set to reclaim a spot in the rotation after a knee injury sidelined him in 2024.

Consider this largely a vote of confidence in Jamey Chadwell, the young head coach with a fun, ground-focused offensive system.

Liberty needs to replace Quinton Cooley and Billy Lucas, who finished mere yards shy of 2,000 combined in both 2023 and 2024. However, the Flames can turn to returning players Juju Gray and Vaughn Blue as their top runners.

Throw in the assortment of Caden Williams , Darius Copeland and Evan Dickens , and Liberty isn't short on options this season.

Quietly boasting one of my favorite units in the country, Western Michigan reloaded at the position through the portal.

The marquee player is Cole Cabana , who didn't play often at Michigan yet brings huge upside to Kalamazoo. Plus, the Broncos added JUCO standouts Devin Miles and Ofa "Lolo" Mataele after both registered 1,200-yard seasons.