2024 juco running back Johnnie Daniels talks Mississippi State decision

Mississippi State head coach Jeff Lebby wasted little time with the Class of 2024. On Wednesday evening, Copiah-Lincoln Community College running back Johnnie Daniels announced his commitment to the Bulldogs, becoming the first commitment of the Lebby era in Starkville.

Daniels led the MACJC ranks in rushing and touchdowns this season en route to being named the MACJC South Division Player of the Year. He collected an offer from Mississippi State earlier this month and delivered the news to Lebby Wednesday morning.

Daniels is the 17th commitment for the Bulldogs’ Class of 2024 and the fourth juco commitment, joining safety Tyler Woodard and defensive lineman Ashun Shepphard of East Mississippi along with linebacker Branden Jennings of Hinds.

“I talked to Coach Lebby this morning after class,” Daniels recalled. “He said he really liked my film then he asked me where I would be in January. I told him I would be at Mississippi State.”

With Lebby’s arrival to Mississippi State, Daniels is excited about the big-play opportunities with the Bulldogs. At Copiah-Lincoln, the Crystal Springs native broke off several runs that covered 30 yards or more.

“I like his offense a lot and they go fast on the field,” added Daniels. “They can give me big run lanes to where I can score.”

With his decision, Daniels will be reunited with current Bulldog defensive lineman Trevion Williams. They both played their prep careers at Crystal Springs High School.

“I told Trevion about it and he was excited,” Daniels said. “He was just smiling from ear to ear. I know he loves it up there and he talks about State being home all the time.”

This past season Daniels rushed 168 times for 1,196 yards (7.1 average per rush) and 14 touchdowns in 11 games. He also had 22 catches for 205 yards and two touchdowns.

During his time at Copiah-Lincoln, Daniels said his juco experience prepared him for the next level and he knew he had to earn his way to the next level.

“It really prepared me for a lot,” said Daniels. “It prepared me mentally, too. Juco showed me that you got to be a dog to get out because everyone is trying to do the same as you are. It’s like that everywhere but I feel like in juco, you have to prove yourself more to get to where you want to go.”

Compared to his time in the high school ranks, Daniels talked of his improvements the past two years at running back. He also believes his duties in the passing game will increase in the Bulldogs’ offense.

“My vision got better and how I processed plays during the game,” Daniels added. “I was able to break down defenses better and I also played a role in the passing game. I will do even better with catches next year with the offense at Mississippi State.”

Daniels is set to graduate in December and will officially visit the Bulldogs on December 15-17. He wants to take advantage of early enrollment and get a head start on the offensive playbook.

“It is a good opportunity to get right with the offense and to get the plays down,” noted Daniels. “I can get right with the school and get used to the system, learn everything. I know a few things already because I’ve been up there so many times.”