Ismail Mahdi

Mahdi is coming off a breakout campaign for the Bobcats in which he amassed 1,331 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns on the ground as well as 20 catches for 275 yards and a score through the air. He'll return to what should now be one of the better offensive backfields in the Sun Belt with the addition of 2023 Sun Belt Player of the Year Jordan McCloud at quarterback. Those two pose a terrifying threat to opposing defenses, especially in option scenarios where they can both use their legs. They'll benefit each other, as McCloud's presence will make defenses respect the pass, opening lanes for Mahdi and vice versa. UTEP transfer tailback Deion Hankins, who elected to join the Bobcats for his final year of eligibility, could eat into a handful of Mahdi's carries. However, he's still expected to receive the lion's share of snaps at running back and should once again be one of the most dynamic runners in the Sun Belt.