/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/45130512/usa-today-8163279.0.jpg)
Ever since MSU wrapped up a 10-2 regular season over a month ago in Oxford, rumors have been floating around as to which members of the 2014 team would be back next fall and which would be moving on. While it seems -- at least for now -- that QB Dak Prescott will be back (as will Dan Mullen), that apparently won't be the case for the other half of the Dakman and Robinson duo, Josh Robinson.
Robinson, just hours from lacing them up for tonight's Capital One Orange Bowl, announced via Instagram this morning that the game against the Yellow Jackets would be his last:
Josh Robinson calls Orange Bowl his last game as a Bulldog. pic.twitter.com/ag3PDkxD94
— Michael Bonner (@MikeBBonner) December 31, 2014
A junior with one season of eligibility remaining, Josh will leave Mississippi State on the heels of a 1,128 yard, 11 TD season in which he was a huge part of MSU's success. He and Dak Prescott were the driving force behind an MSU offense that led the league in total yards this season, and he did so seemingly coming out of nowhere to take complete hold of a starting running back position that was cloudy to begin the season.
I can't say enough how much I'll miss watching Josh play in maroon and white. He wasn't just a great player for State this year, but a big character as well. He instantly became a fan favorite with his antics, and he will truly be missed next year. Thanks for everything, Josh!
As for where that would leave MSU should Josh officially declare soon, rising junior Ashton Shumpert and redshirt freshman Aeris Williams will likely carry the load for MSU next year. The Bulldogs will also have redshirt freshman Dontavian Lee, junior Brandon Holloway, and incoming freshmen Alec Murphy and Nick Gibson. Needless to say, MSU will still have plenty of options despite losing the talented 1,000 yard rusher. Shumpert showed flashes of being a serious power back this year, while Williams is a highly touted newcomer who many thought would push for playing time next year regardless of Robinson's possible return.
This is certainly sad news for us as MSU fans, but we at least hope we can send J-Rob out in style.