South Dakota State RB Isaiah Davis
Height: 6-foot
Weight: 218 lbs
Career Statistics: 676 carries, 4,548 rushing yards, 6.7 yards per carry, 50 rushing TDs, 487 receiving yards
Accolades: 2X FCS All-American Selection (2022-23), MVFC co-Offensive Player of the Year (2023), 2X First-Team All-MVFC Selection (2022-23), HERO Sports Sophomore All-American (2021), MVFC All-Newcomer Team (2020-21), HERO Sports Freshman All-American (2020-21)
Background Report:
In high school, Davis dominated as a running back, amassing over 2,000 rushing yards and 45 touchdowns in his senior year, and also excelled as a linebacker. His senior year performance earned him Missouri Gatorade Player of the Year honors. Choosing to play at South Dakota State, Davis quickly adapted to the collegiate level, showcasing his abilities as a powerful runner despite the postponement of his freshman season due to COVID-19.
Over the following years, despite battling injuries, Davis excelled on the field, earning first-team All-Missouri Valley Football Conference (MVFC) honors and achieving back-to-back FCS All-American selections by his junior year. He totaled 1,578 rushing yards and 18 touchdowns as a senior in 2023.
Scouting Report:
Standing at 6-foot and weighing 220 lbs, Isaiah Davis combines very good size with a powerful lower body. He possesses a blend of power and agility, making him particularly effective between the tackles. His vision and patience allow him to exploit gaps in the defense. His one-cut, downhill approach prioritizes forward momentum, showcasing his ability to gain yards after contact, though his overall speed and acceleration are average for the position.
While Davis has proven to be a capable receiver out of the backfield, his route-running capabilities are limited. Additionally, while he has the physical tools for effective pass protection, honing his technique to maintain a solid base rather than lunging at defenders could enhance his value on passing downs.
Projection: Round 5-6
Isaiah Davis projects as an Adequate NFL Rotational Prospect. His skill set makes him well-suited for teams looking for a running back who can contribute in a gap scheme running game and offer short-area receiving skills. His power-running approach and ability to absorb and deliver contact could make him a valuable asset in short-yardage and goal-line situations, where his knack for finding the end zone can be most impactful.
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