The Mountain West has some of the top breakout candidates in the nation this season.

The conference has produced an abundance of talent at the running back position over the years. In 2025, there will be a lot more talent taking the field ready to dominate in the trenches.

As we prepare for the 2025 season, we will be taking a look at some of the best players at skill positions around the nation.

Below, check out the top running backs in the Mountain West for the 2025 season.

5. Bryson Donelson, Fresno State

Donelson played in all 12 games for Fresno State, making three starts, and totaled 462 yards and three touchdowns. The true freshman has great potential in the backfield and will look to make it real on the field as RB1 in 2025.

4. Sire Gaines, Boise State

Gaines was a true freshman last season and showed flashes before suffering a season-ending injury. He rushed for 110 yards and two total touchdowns in the season opener but could not build on it further due to the injury. Now, there is plenty of hype surrounding the running back if he is able to come in at full strength.

3. Dylan Carson, Air Force

Carlson took a major step forward in 2024 and could be preparing for one more this year. He rushed for 600 yards and five touchdowns as a junior. Entering his senior year, Air Force will hand the ball to Carlson plenty as it looks to improve on a five-win season.

2. Jai’Den Thomas, UNLV

Thomas is among the top returners of Mountain West RBs from last season. He was named Second Team All-Conference after rushing for 918 yards and seven touchdowns. The return of Thomas gives the Rebels a leader in the backfield, which will be key during the season.

1. Scottre Humphrey, New Mexico

Humphrey comes to New Mexico after two monsters seasons at Montana State. He is one of the top transfers in the conference with potential to put up bug mimers. In 2024, he was named an FCS All-American after rushing for 1,386 yards. The Lobos know Humphrey well as he scored the game-winning touchdown against them in Week 1 last season. Now, he will get to do it for them in the backfield.