Florida State running backs Ousmane Kromah and Quintrevion Wisner both landed on the 2026 Doak Walker Award watch list. This trophy goes to the best running back in college football. The Seminoles are one of only seven schools to put two players on the list this year.
A Big Moment for the FSU Backfield
It’s nice to see some early recognition for our guys. Most of the recent buzz around Florida State has focused on receiver Duce Robinson, but having two backs on a national list proves we’ve got real depth. According to Yahoo Sports CFB, Florida State is just one of two teams in the ACC with multiple players on this watch list.
I like what I’m seeing with this pair. Kromah is a big body at 6-foot-1 and 216 pounds. He had a solid freshman year with 408 rushing yards. He didn’t find the end zone much, though he did grab one receiving touchdown. He also added 147 yards through the air. He was a top 100 prospect when he arrived, and I think this is his year to really take over.
Wisner brings a different kind of history to the group. Per Yahoo Sports CFB, he led the Texas Longhorns last season with 1,064 yards and five touchdowns. He had some huge games, like his 186-yard performance against Texas A&M. He’s got the talent to be a star if he stays healthy.
The Road to Success for the Seminoles
Success for these backs depends heavily on the guys playing in front of them. The line is being rebuilt, yet they carry a lot of experience. This group has 107 combined starts. That’s a massive advantage because it means they know how to block and how to read a defense without hesitation.
The coaching staff has to make the right calls too. Coach Mike Norvell will need to use the playbook effectively. If the offense becomes one-dimensional, we’re in trouble. I want to see him use both Kromah and Wisner to keep defenses guessing. If he can find ways to get them into open space, we could have a very good season.
The talent is clearly there. We have a great quarterback in Ashton Daniels to help lead the way. When you have a strong line and two capable backs, you have a foundation for a winning year. It isn’t just about the names on the list, but how they work together.
Comparing the National Talent
The Doak Walker list is packed with heavy hitters this year. It’s not just our guys making waves. For example, Yahoo Sports CFB notes that 62 running backs made the preseason list. Looking around the country, you see some familiar names.
The competition is stiff across the nation:
- Lucky Sutton of San Diego State is also on the list.
- Ohio State has Bo Jackson, who had 1,090 yards as a freshman.
- Houston has Makhi Hughes, who rushed for 1,401 yards at Tulane last year.
- Missouri has Ahmad Hardy, who had 1,649 yards last season.
Seeing names like Sutton and Jackson makes the race much harder.
