By james art Caden Durham has been LSU’s most productive running back this season.
The freshman is first on the team with 382 rushing yards and eight total touchdowns in six games. He averages 6.2 yards per carry and leads the running back room in receptions and receiving yards.
Last Saturday against Arkansas, he had his third 95+ yard performance of the season. But what has most impressed Durham coach Brian Kelly of late is how he continues to be a force despite not feeling 100 percent fit.
“A lot of guys aren’t going to be in the game,” Kelly said Monday. “He’s playing at about 80-85 percent, but he’s got great vision, he’s got stamina (and he) keeps his feet moving.”
Durham suffered a leg injury during the first half of LSU’s Sept. 28 game against South Alabama. He missed the second half and was listed on the Tigers’ availability report before their game against Ole Miss. But Durham was fully available against the Rebels and Razorbacks.
“Injuries are tough to deal with at any position,” Kelly said. “But when you’re a running back and you have an injury and you’re still fighting through it, I think that speaks volumes for the young man and I’m really proud of him.”
Durham wore a walking boot on his left foot after the Arkansas game, which he said was precautionary. After the game in Fayetteville, he found his mother. The two shared a long hug and he told her he felt sick after rushing for 101 yards and three touchdowns.
“I was a little emotional, but I held back the tears,” his mother, Staneshia Bell, told The Advocate.
Durham did not see any game action in LSU’s opener against Southern Cal. But after John Emery tore his ACL in practice following the season-opening loss, Durham found his way into the rotation and moved atop the running back depth chart.
Durham has been first or tied for first as a team in four of its last five games.
“I know I’m a hard worker,” Durham said, “and I know how much hard work I’ve put in in practice and not even (just) practice, but off the field.”
Staff writer Wilson Alexander contributed to this report.