The odds are in Michigan State’s favor to compete for the national title in 2015, partly because of running back Jeremy Langford.
Langford is picked to be one of the Big Ten’s best in two rushing categories, thanks to a great 2013 season. Starting in all 14 games last season, he rushed for 1, 422 yards and 292 carries – good for best in the Big Ten. In addition, he scored 18 touchdowns and rushed for 100 yds for a record eight straight games, including a season high 151 rush yards in the Spartans’ win over Nebraska. In the 2014 Rose Bowl, Langford scored a touchdown that played a key role in winning a close game.
With the best odds of any Big Ten back, he is a plus-200 (ex. if you bet $100, you win $200) to lead the Big Ten in rushing touchdowns. Langford is also plus-300 to win the Big Ten rushing title, right on the heels of Wisconsin running back Melvin Gordon.
Langford has the ability to read blockers well and get upfield as quickly as possible. If he can sharpen his breakaway skills on defense, Michigan State will be the best in the Big Ten. Offensive coordinator Dave Warner says he is working on getting him the ball in space, and to look for more big plays involving Langford.
