🎧 The Headset’s Take: Marshall’s 2025 Running Back Depth Chart — From the Bottom Up

Marshall has quietly become one of the most underrated running back pipelines in the Group of Five.

Over the years, we’ve seen Rasheen Ali break records, Khalan Laborn rack up 1,500+ yards in a single season, Brenden Knox bulldoze his way to Conference USA MVP honors, and AJ Turner flash elite speed and playmaking ability.

The tradition is real.

The bar is high.

And in 2025, a new cast of backs is ready to carry the torch.

The Headset’s been watching the film, talking to sources, and tuning into the whispers from Huntington — and here’s how we see this year’s RB room stacking up, from least to most likely to make an impact this fall:

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5. Anthony Quinn Jr. – R-Freshman | Developmental Depth

Quinn is talented — no question — but 2025 may be more about learning than leading. Unless injuries open a door, he’ll likely spend this season sharpening his craft on scout team reps and waiting his turn.

Role: Long-term project / emergency depth

Why He’s Here: Still gaining strength and system knowledge

The Headset Says: A name for the future, not a factor in the now.

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5. Justin Williams-Thomas – Transfer (Cal via Tennessee) | Talented Wild Card

Let’s talk ceiling: this guy’s got it. A former 4-star recruit, Williams-Thomas has SEC athleticism and burst. But he’s also bounced between two schools and seen limited action, meaning he enters 2025 with something to prove. If he adapts quickly and stays healthy, he could skyrocket into the rotation.

Role: Rotation candidate / home-run hitter

The Headset Says: High-risk, high-reward. Watch how fast he grasps the system — he could leapfrog if it clicks.

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4. Tony Mathis Jr. – Grad Transfer | Experience with Health Flags

On paper, Mathis might be the most accomplished back in the room. He’s played at WVU and Houston. He’s been in big games. But health has held him back — and may do so again this fall. He’s recovering and could miss time early. When active, he brings value, but don’t expect a heavy load off the jump.

Role: Situational veteran / late-season potential

Why He’s Here: Injuries, uncertain early availability

The Headset Says: The résumé is legit, but the reliability is in question.

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3. Antwan Roberts – R-Sophomore | Reliable, Under-the-Radar Grinder

Roberts is the kind of back every coach loves. Tough. Dependable. Physical. He may not be flashy, but he gets tough yards and doesn’t go down easy. He’s the “next man up” candidate if someone ahead falters.

Role: Power runner / drive sustainer

Why He’s Here: Does the dirty work and earns trust

The Headset Says: Not a headliner — but every committee needs a guy like him.

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2. Michael Allen – Freshman | Breakout Threat with Home-Run Potential

Don’t let the new jersey fool you — Michael Allen has already played Power Five football at NC State and flashed potential in the Mountain West with UNLV. He brings real game experience, legit speed, and home-run ability that this backfield has been quietly missing since Rasheen Ali’s prime.

He’s the type of back who can turn a swing pass into six or break a tired defense with one cut. He may begin in a rotational role, but if he locks in mentally and stays healthy, he has feature back upside.

Role: Change-of-pace back / chunk play creator / rotation

Why He’s Here: Game-tested and built for explosive plays

The Headset Says: This isn’t a developmental piece — Allen’s ready to go. Don’t be surprised if he becomes the RB1 before conference play hits.

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1. Jo’shon Barbie – R-Junior | The Trusted Tone-Setter

He may not be the flashiest name in the group, but right now, Barbie is the most reliable. He understands the offense, runs with purpose, and fits the mold of a Rod Smith system back. Expect him to take the first snaps of the season — and carry the load early.

Role: Lead back / early-down workhorse

Why He’s Here: Dependability, system familiarity, leadership

The Headset Says: He sets the tone until someone takes it from him — and that won’t be easy.

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Final Word from The Headset

Marshall has depth, talent, and a whole lot of potential in the backfield.

No one in the room has separated just yet — but that’s what fall camp is for.

With Barbie’s consistency, Allen’s upside, Roberts’ grit, and Mathis’ experience, and Williams-Thomas raw talent, the Herd may not have one Rasheen Ali this year — but they might have 5 backs who can each do something special.

The tradition continues… the question is: who’s next?

🎧 The Headset is watching. Stay tuned.

Go Herd!