With spring football approaching, we’re going position by position looking at Indiana’s roster.
Curt Cignetti has long favored a committee in the backfield, and that’s held true with the Hoosiers. They utilized both Ty Son Lawton and Justice Ellison in 2024, and Kaelon Black and Roman Hemby did the heavy lifting last year. Lee Beebe Jr. appeared to be part of a three-man group at the beginning of the season, but he suffered a season-ending injury during non-conference action.
John Miller’s group looks three-deep going into spring this year once again. Beebe is back and should be a factor at running back. He has a lot of quickness, which he displayed in his three games last season before getting hurt. The former UAB transfer recorded 27 carries for 209 yards and a touchdown.
Khobie Martin also returns with a lot of potential. When Beebe went down, Martin stepped in as the team’s No. 3 running back. He wasn’t part of Indiana’s main backfield rotation, mainly playing in mop-up territory. But he regularly capitalized on his opportunities and flashed a lot of potential. The Fishers, Ind. native finished the year with 505 yards — the most rushing yards by an Indiana freshman since Stevie Scott III in 2018 — on 78 carries with six touchdowns.
‘He’s on a great path’: Indiana RB Khobie Martin has capitalized on his opportunities this year
Turbo Richard joins the Hoosiers out of the transfer portal from Boston College, and he should be heavily involved as well. He was the Eagles’ lead back last year, and he rushed for 749 yards on 145 attempts with nine touchdowns. He also brings some pass-catching prowess that could help him get on the field — Richard caught 30 passes last season for 213 yards and two touchdowns.
Redshirt freshman Sean Cuono could have an opportunity to crack the backfield picture in some capacity this fall, though it’s hard to see him eclipsing any of the aforementioned trio. But a good showing in spring ball would certainly help.
Roster overview
Who’s gone:
- Kaelon Black (out of eligibility)
- Roman Hemby (out of eligibility)
- Solomon Vanhorse (out of eligibility)
Who’s returning:
- Lee Beebe Jr. (redshirt senior)
- Khobie Martin (redshirt sophomore)
- Sean Cuono (redshirt freshman)
Who’s joining:
- Turbo Richard (transfer — Tulane; redshirt senior)
- Jayreon Campbell (three-star, Powder Springs, Ga.)
More previews:
For complete coverage of IU football, GO HERE.
The Daily Hoosier –“Where Indiana fans assemble when they’re not at Assembly”
- Find us on Instagram, X, and Facebook
- Seven ways to support completely free IU coverage at no cost to you.
