How K-State plans to use Giddens, Edwards and others at running back in 2024

LAS VEGAS (KSNT) - Kansas State running back DJ Giddens emerged as a workhorse in 2023, carrying the ball more than 200 times and racking up more than 1,500 total yards.

However, Giddens won't be the only force in K-State's backfield in 2024. The Wildcats have a quarterback known for his speed and added Colorado transfer Dylan Edwards. Plus, there's more depth in that running back room.

"Joe Jackson is a good player for us, La'James White," K-State head coach Chris Klieman pointed out as additional ball carriers Wildcat fans could see on the field in 2024. "We've got some other guys. We need to spread it around a little more. DJ, we know, is the lead guy but we need to find ways to get other guys the ball and also protect him and save him a little bit for when we really need him."

Klieman said the depth will help with workload management for Giddens and he trust the coaches on their staff to help navigate the multitude of options Kansas State has in the back field.

"I think [running backs coach Brian Anderson] does a good job of juggling everybody," he said. "We need to find out about what some of the other guys can do. We know what DJ can do."

Klieman said Giddens specifically might not always get the respect he deserves from those outside the program and pointed out the Junction City native's performance in the Pop-Tarts Bowl when K-State leaned heavily on him in the run game. Giddens carried the ball 28 times for 151 yards in that game while finding the end zone once on the ground and once through the air.