It appeared that Michael Shaw was going to get the start at running back for Michigan when they took on Western Michigan in the season opener.

That was until Friday when head coach Brady Hoke announced that Fitzgerald Toussaint would get the start at tailback.

The 5-foot-10, 195-pound sophomore was listed as a co-starter with Shaw when the original depth chart was released this week. Toussaint was able to come on strong at the end of camp and it was revealed via video that he would get the start.

“He’s really showed a toughness to him,” Hoke said in the video. “I think he’s done real well in the passing game, with picking up blitzers and those things, and knowing where they’re coming from. He’s shown good ability to stay on his feet and have great balance and vision.”

With the new pro-style offense, Michigan plans to use a power running game which Toussaint gives them them the opportunity to do that with his size. You can probably expect Toussaint to receive about 25 carries per game.

Source: AnnArbor.com