Story by Keith Jaco
Staff writer
A year ago, sophomore running back D.J. Penick was placed in the toughest spot of his young Racer career. In his very first collegiate game, Penick was asked to become the lead running back for Murray State.
“Last year, D.J. was forced into a situation as a freshman that not many are people are forced into where he had to be the guy,” Stewart said. “It was a great learning experience for him. He did a nice job of developing from it, and obviously we’ve got to get better in the run game. I think his development after last year going through all of the ups and downs is going to help him this year.”
Following a lackluster season where Murray State finished last in rushing yards (65.5 per game), Penick and the Racer offense will have much to improve upon as he embarks upon his second year as the lead running back.
Penick showed bright spots in the first game of his sophomore year, rushing for 42 yards and adding a touchdown to complement his statline and set the tone for what he hopes is an improved year.
While the ground game certainly wasn’t a bright spot last year, Penick said he has undergone physical improvements which could serve him well this season.
“I came back a little bit bigger, a little bit stronger, a little bit faster and the whole team is looking a lot better,” Penick said. “All the coaches have been getting their specific position groups right, and I feel like we’re looking good going into the first game of the season.”
Running back Coach Carson Hunter is entering his third year with the Racer football program. Hunter spent the previous two seasons working with the Racer wide receivers and linebackers and he said he’s excited about the guys he has in the backfield this season.
“The biggest difference this year are the players that are back there,” Hunter said. “We have really talented players. I can bring tremendous enthusiasm and try to provide really clear instructions and expectations and hold them to a higher standard, but at the end of the day, these guys are supremely talented athletes and tremendous competitors.”
One of those players, sophomore Rodney Castille, has offered a versatile presence this year. Formerly a wide receiver, Castille got reps at running back in the Racers’ first game, where he recorded 72 yards rushing.
The Racers will hit the road for the first time this season Saturday, Sept. 8, as they take on the Bears of Central Arkansas at 6 p.m.
