The 2019 LSU Tigers football season stands as a monumental year in college football history, defined by explosive offensive firepower and a legendary running back. While the national championship parade often highlights the Heisman-winning quarterback, the foundation of that success was built in the trenches and in the hands of a dynamic running back corps. The journey of the LSU RB in 2019 was a story of resilience, competition, and the sheer dominance of a young talent who would change the narrative of the season.
The Offensive Landscape: Setting the Stage for the Running Back
Before dissecting the individual performances, it is crucial to understand the offensive scheme that surrounded the LSU backfield. Head coach Ed Orgeron implemented an aggressive, up-tempo no-huddle attack designed to keep defenses off balance. This system, inherited from former coordinator Steve Ensminger and refined by Matt Canada, was built to leverage the incredible talent across the roster. The quarterback play of Joe Burrow provided a massive advantage, allowing the offense to control the clock and dictate the pace of the game. Within this high-octane environment, the role of the running back was multifaceted, serving as both a primary ball-carrier and a complementary weapon in play-action sequences.
Joe Burrow: The Catalyst Who Elevated the Entire Backfield
While the focus is often on the runner, the 2019 LSU offense cannot be discussed without acknowledging the transcendent talent of Joe Burrow. His Heisman Trophy-winning season provided a safety valve that allowed the running game to thrive. Defenses were forced to respect the vertical threat, creating cutback lanes and opportunities for the running backs to explode through gaps. The synergy between Burrow and the ground game was a masterclass in offensive football. The threat of the run legitimized the pass, and the threat of the pass opened up the running lanes, making the entire unit exponentially more dangerous.
Kareem Hunt: The Veteran Leader and Workhorse
Transition from Kansas City to Baton Rouge
Entering the 2019 season, Kareem Hunt was the established star and the unquestioned leader of the LSU backfield. After a successful stint in the NFL with the Kansas City Chiefs, Hunt brought a level of experience and professionalism that was vital for the young Tigers squad. He was the prototype of the modern power back, combining size, vision, and patience to wear down defenses over the course of a game. Hunt was the engine that drove the LSU offense, logging significant carries and setting the tone in the early part of the season.
Performance Highlights and Impact
Hunt's contributions were evident in the numbers and the big moments. He was a consistent threat, grinding out tough yards on third-and-short and punishing defenders in the open field. His ability to fall forward on dives and maintain balance in traffic was a critical asset. Hunt's presence allowed the coaching staff to build game plans around a reliable ball-carrier, which in turn created opportunities for the complementary backs. His leadership on the field was immeasurable, mentoring younger players and setting the standard for practice and preparation.
Derrius Guice: The Breakout Star and Game-Changer
Emergence and Electrifying Runs
While Hunt provided stability, Derrius Guice provided the explosive play that became the signature of the 2019 LSU offense. Guice, a true freshman, quickly transitioned from a talented recruit to a national sensation. His combination of vision, acceleration, and raw power was unlike anything seen in the SEC that year. He turned sideline-to-sideline runs into highlight-reel plays, breaking tackles and changing the momentum of a game with a single carry. His emergence was a pleasant surprise and a critical component of the team's offensive volatility.
