By Mmesoma 
As college football prepares for another thrilling season, all eyes are on the incoming stars who could define the year. While quarterbacks often steal the spotlight, running backs continue to be the heartbeat of many offenses. In 2025, a new wave of tailbacks is ready to take center stage—players who’ve waited their turn, flashed glimpses of greatness, or transferred for more opportunity.
Here are five running backs poised for breakout campaigns in the 2025 college football season:
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1. Jaylen Rivers – Alabama Crimson Tide
Class: Sophomore | Height: 6’0″ | Weight: 210 lbs
After sitting behind veteran backs last season, Rivers is ready to carry the load in Tuscaloosa. A powerful runner with elite burst, he turned heads during spring practices and could become the centerpiece of Alabama’s revamped offense. Expect a heavy workload and serious SEC buzz.
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2. Kahlil Bennett – Oregon Ducks
Class: Junior | Height: 5’11” | Weight: 205 lbs
Bennett has been quietly building momentum behind the scenes in Eugene. Now, with a starting role in a high-octane Ducks offense, he’s primed to break out nationally. His combination of speed, vision, and receiving ability makes him a perfect fit for Oregon’s dynamic system.
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3. Tyrone “T.Y.” McCall – Michigan State Spartans
Class: Redshirt Sophomore | Height: 6’1″ | Weight: 215 lbs
McCall is the definition of a workhorse. After a promising end to last season, he enters 2025 as the Spartans’ RB1 and a potential All-Big Ten selection. With a revamped offensive line and a more balanced attack, McCall could be the breakout star Michigan State desperately needs.
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4. Devin Hightower – Miami Hurricanes
Class: Sophomore | Height: 5’10” | Weight: 200 lbs
Hightower only had limited touches in 2024, but each carry showed flashes of elite potential. With the backfield now cleared and Miami expected to lean heavily on the ground game, Hightower’s electric playstyle and big-play ability could turn him into a household name.
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5. Roman Tate – Texas Longhorns
Class: Junior | Height: 6’0″ | Weight: 218 lbs
After transferring from TCU, Tate brings a physical, punishing style to the Longhorns’ backfield. Coaches rave about his leadership and work ethic, and early reports from summer workouts suggest he’s ready to be the bell cow in Texas’ quest for a Big 12 title.
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Final Thoughts
While Heisman contenders often begin the season with national recognition, these five backs could steal the spotlight with breakout performances. Whether it’s stepping into a starting role, transferring for opportunity, or simply maturing into their potential, these athletes are poised to electrify college football in 2025.
Keep an eye on them—because by midseason, they might not just be surprises. They could be stars.