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Southern Utah University Athletics

SOUTHERN UTAH THUNDERBIRDS
Wissler takes the handoff in scrimmage

Football Regan Hunsaker- Assistant AD for Sports Information

Backfield Behemoths: Previewing Southern Utah University's Running Back Revolution

CEDAR CITY, Utah - As the anticipation builds for the upcoming fall season, Southern Utah University's football fans have a lot to look forward to, particularly when it comes to the running back position. With a three-man rotation in the works, the Thunderbirds are preparing to unleash a formidable trio that promises to keep opponents on their toes. 


Coach DeLane Fitzgerald Said

"We expect to have a three-man rotation at the running back position this fall. A three-headed monster!"


Braedon Wissler: A Driving Force

Braedon Wissler who led the Thunderbirds in rushing yards a year ago, is expected to be at the forefront of this dynamic trio. Wissler's offseason regimen has propelled him to new heights, resulting in enhanced strength and speed. His performance on the field during camp suggests that he's more than ready to take on the starting role. With experience under his belt, Wissler's reliability and play-making ability make him an indispensable asset to the Thunderbirds' offensive strategy.


Running Backs Coach and Recruiting Coordinator Darrius G. Smith Said

"The room is filled with competition this year. Daily improvements are showing up in each player in the running back room. It has been a long time since I have had a position room with so much hunger and competitive drive. I am excited to get these young men on the field Saturday nights and afternoons."

 


Contenders Emerge: The Battle for Rotation

Behind Wissler, fierce competition is unfolding as aspiring contenders vie for coveted spots within the three-man rotation. This internal rivalry is pushing each player to exceed their ability and is making the group as a whole much more prolific on the field.

Other running back contenders include Targhee Lambson, a Snow College transfer with dynamic versatility in the backfield. Cade Bowring's relentless commitment to improvement has caught the coaching staff's attention, with his steady progress and hunger for success positioning him for a potential rotation spot. Jordan Jefferson brings agility and explosive moves, offering an element of surprise; his continued improvement and sustained performance could make him a game-changing force. Kieran Fry has also earned recognition, as he aligns his goals with the team's strategic vision, potentially becoming a reliable rotation choice. Landon Freeman's drive on the field places him as a somewhat unexpected contender, though his relentless work ethic might translate into valuable playing time throughout the season.

Possible Contributors on the Horizon

Amidst the competition for rotation slots, the coaching staff is keeping a watchful eye on a group of emerging talents whose growth during training camp has been truly promising. James Bohls, Jaxson Percoats, and Niko Alailefaleula have been consistently improving. The trio finds themselves pushing to be included in what could shape up to be a potent running game.

As the Southern Utah University Thunderbirds gear up for the upcoming season, the running back position stands as a formidable force. A relentless battle among contenders continues through the third week of camp. The rising tide of emerging talents could lead the Thunderbirds' ground game to become a defining aspect of their offensive strategy. As the season unfolds, spectators can anticipate a thrilling display from this "three-headed monster" in the backfield.


Single Game Tickets

Single-game tickets for the 2023 season are now available. Get over to tbirdtickets.com to get your seats for this year's home games!


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Players Mentioned

Jordan Jefferson

#22 Jordan Jefferson

RB
5' 8"
Freshman
Braedon Wissler

#21 Braedon Wissler

RB
5' 7"
Redshirt Sophomore
Cade Bowring

#42 Cade Bowring

RB
6' 0"
Freshman
Kieran Fry

#15 Kieran Fry

RB
5' 6"
Redshirt Sophomore
Niko Alailefaleula

#44 Niko Alailefaleula

RB
5' 9"
Freshman
James Bohls

#29 James Bohls

RB
6' 0"
Redshirt Sophomore
Landon Freeman

#23 Landon Freeman

RB
5' 11"
Graduate Student
Targhee Lambson

#32 Targhee Lambson

RB
5' 9"
Junior
Jaxson Percoats

#22 Jaxson Percoats

RB
5' 11"
Freshman

Players Mentioned

Jordan Jefferson

#22 Jordan Jefferson

5' 8"
Freshman
RB
Braedon Wissler

#21 Braedon Wissler

5' 7"
Redshirt Sophomore
RB
Cade Bowring

#42 Cade Bowring

6' 0"
Freshman
RB
Kieran Fry

#15 Kieran Fry

5' 6"
Redshirt Sophomore
RB
Niko Alailefaleula

#44 Niko Alailefaleula

5' 9"
Freshman
RB
James Bohls

#29 James Bohls

6' 0"
Redshirt Sophomore
RB
Landon Freeman

#23 Landon Freeman

5' 11"
Graduate Student
RB
Targhee Lambson

#32 Targhee Lambson

5' 9"
Junior
RB
Jaxson Percoats

#22 Jaxson Percoats

5' 11"
Freshman
RB