Who Is Bryson Kuzdzal? Walk-On Running Back Becomes Michigan’s Surprise Star in Season-Saving Win

Who is Bryson Kuzdzal? Junior running back Bryson Kuzdzal is a 5-11, 210-pound former walk-on from Grand Rapids, Michigan, who earned his first varsity letter in 2024 and has risen to Michigan’s No. 2 tailback spot in 2025. His breakout moment came at Northwestern on Nov. 15, when he carried 15 times for 53 yards and powered the game-winning drive. Why the Spike in Searches Starting back Jordan Marshall is nursing a shoulder injury suffered last week, and head coach Sherrone Moore has confirmed that Kuzdzal “would be the guy” if Marshall can’t go versus Maryland on Saturday. That next-man-up scenario has fans and fantasy-football managers scrambling to learn more about the Wolverines’ new potential RB1. Career Snapshot and Stats • Career highs: 15 rushes, 53 yards (at Northwestern, 11/15/25) • 2025 season: 25 carries, 106 yards, 1 TD; special-teams contributor • First career touchdown: 5-carry, 30-yard effort vs Central Michigan on Sept. 13 Coaches’ Confidence Moore praises Kuzdzal’s “speed, power and downhill style,” adding that the walk-on has “earned his stripes” on special teams and is now ready for a featured role. At 210 lbs he offers more bulk than his frame suggests, allowing Michigan to keep its physical rushing identity intact. Matchup vs. Maryland The Terrapins rank 102nd nationally in run defense, surrendering 174 yards per game. Kuzdzal’s one-cut acceleration and low pad level align well with Michigan’s inside-zone scheme, making him a strong candidate for red-zone touches and clock-control carries if Marshall sits. Role in the Wolverines’ Offense Michigan leans on a balanced attack with read-option wrinkles for QB Bryce Underwood. Kuzdzal’s proven special-teams tackling speaks to his toughness, an asset on blitz pickup. Expect offensive coordinator Wink Martindale to script early carries to settle the junior and set up play-action shots. What’s Next If Kuzdzal capitalizes against Maryland, he could secure a rotational role even after Marshall returns, giving the Wolverines a three-headed backfield entering the Ohio State showdown and the postseason. SEO Keywords: Bryson Kuzdzal, Michigan Wolverines running back, Michigan vs Maryland, Jordan Marshall injury, walk-on RB, Michigan football depth chart.