Redshirt-sophomore running back Jamarius Henderson has been getting his fair share with the Troy Trojans. Entering his first season with the team, Henderson has seen plenty of game action and has showcased what he can bring as a feature back in 2018. The star back transferred from Memphis in 2017 for personal reasons, and ultimately chose to be closer to home in Troy. The Midland City, AL native has shown flashes of his unique running style through the first three games.
Jamarius Henderson Can Become Next Feature Back for Troy
Henderson has had a bit of trouble while at Troy though. Head Coach Neal Brown announced at Media Day back in August that Henderson was suspended from the team, but that he would have his chance to come back. Not too long after that, Jamarius was back on with the team and ready to work. Sharing the backfield with senior Jordan Chunn has to be eye-opening for Henderson, who can become the starter in 2018 if all goes well. Chunn has been the Trojans’ starting back for a few seasons now. But Henderson is patiently awaiting his turn to shine for the up and coming Trojans.
When in the game, Henderson brings a workload to the Troy offense that can spark a drive and continue towards the end zone. That style of running is what makes Henderson such a versatile back in an up-tempo Trojan offense. The sophomore is working towards earning more and more playing time with each week that passes. Coach Brown and the staff do a tremendous job of utilizing Henderson in the right situations. But using him in a bigger role could turn out to have a greater impact on the team’s play through the season. He has been used on special teams as well. Henderson had two big blocks on special teams against Alabama State in early September that led to two punt return touchdowns by Marcus Jones. Both plays were called back due to penalties.
A More Expanded Role to Come
Earning a larger role in the offense is at the top of Henderson’s ultimate goals. As he furthers his college career with Troy, more opportunities will arise for the versatile two-way player. One key note with Henderson is that he can bring forth a running style that can open up the passing game for the Trojans when opposing defenses will get to the Trojans quarterback.
Learning From The Best
Learning from a veteran like Chunn is the best way for Henderson to learn what it really takes to be a lead back in college. While at Memphis, Henderson saw limited action and never had the chance to become that feature star. Now that he is at Troy, he has that chance with each week and could likely earn it in his junior season. Henderson will be the clear favorite to start in 2018. The role that he currently has with the team is opportunistic. The case for him to finish strong close to home is right their in his hands.
