As MiQuale Lewis watched his team lose to Rutgers University during the International Bowl on a freezing January afternoon, he yearned to throw on his uniform and join his teammates in the huddle.
The only thing preventing Lewis from buckling his helmet straps and running onto the field was an ACL tear he suffered in his right knee at the University of Nebraska in the fourth week of the season. After a terrific start to his second season, the injury forced the former starting running back to stay planted on the sidelines for the remainder of the year.
Determined to do everything in his power to avoid the despair he felt that day, Lewis put himself through a strenuous physical rehab regimen this offseason. The work allowed Lewis to perform at full strength since summer conditioning, and coach Brady Hoke said the redshirt sophomore will start Thursday in the team's season opener against Northeastern University.
"This had to be the most difficult I've ever had," Lewis said, comparing it to previous shoulder and ankle rehabs he's experienced. "I missed being on the field with the seniors and helping the team out with wins. I just missed playing the game of football. That's what I've been doing my whole life, so not being able to play was devastating. I can't wait to get back out there Thursday."
As Lewis returns, the position is drastically different compared to last year. Perhaps the lone benefit that stemmed from Lewis' injury was the opportunity to develop Ball State University's young talent at running back.
Freshman Cory Sykes won the backup battle with sophomore Frank Edmonds, Hoke said, primarily due to Sykes' improvement with his receiving out of the backfield. Edmonds, who started three games last season, will play as Ball State's third-string half back. Hoke said his diminished role is a by-product of how talented the Cardinals' running back position is.
While Lewis will be counted for production in the Cardinals' rushing game, running backs coach Eddie Faulkner said, the team also will benefit from the leadership he provides to the youngest offensive positional group.
"I keep the pressure on him all the time to challenge him as a leader," Faulkner said. "I definitely challenge him because he has the most experience back there, and just naturally, whether he wants to be a leader or not, guys come into a room and look to him for guidance."
Hoke said a deeper pool of running backs should aid Lewis in his attempt to maintain his health. More depth at the position ideally gives Hoke the opportunity to share the work load in the running game, a strategy he said he plans to utilize.
"We're in a position that is different than where we were a year ago because we have some depth now at the running back position," Hoke said. "Hopefully he stays healthy, and they all stay healthy, so he doesn't have to be the bulk of the load every game."
Part of Lewis' rigid health regimen includes concentrated rehab on his lower body, extensive icing before and after practice as well as additional stretching. With more concern on his physical health, Lewis has also taken to saying a prayer for the safety of him and his teammates before each practice, a tradition he plans to continue before Thursday's kickoff.
"I just pray that we all stay healthy, and for myself so I can stay on the field and play," Lewis said. "I know if I can stay healthy, the sky's the limit for myself."
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