Travis Etienne has come off an incredible freshman season, Etienne lead the team with 766 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns, a freshman record within the program. The sophomore running back has a chance this year to make an impression on the coaching staff as the Tigers starting running back, CJ Fuller transferred out of the program and Etienne has moved into the starting position according to the preseason depth chart.
Etienne, who at times struggled in pass protection last season, made it his main goal to work on pass-pro throughout the offseason. Etienne stated that as he he has improved his “football IQ” , and is working on slowing his thoughts during the fast paced action that can be a game . Travis is focusing on what he can do to become a better player and work on the betterment of himself as well as the rest of the team.
Throughout the spring, junior running back Tavien Feaster held an edge on Travis for the starting position. Feaster had 669 rushing yards and 7 touchdowns last season. Feaster was listed as the starter most of the 2017 season and is listed this season as a back up along with Adam Choice. So it was certainly a surprise to see Etienne top the depth chart coming out of Spring practice.
As of the first day of fall camp, Travis is on top of the depth chart, with Tavien and Adam listed right behind him. With the season approaching , the Tigers find themselves with luxury of a stable of quality and experienced running backs, no matter the player in the game at any certain time.
Stay tuned as we follow this intriguing story line through- out the month of August and camp. As the Tigers quickly head toward the opening game in Death Valley with the Paladins of Furman
