Spring Football: Smith Looks To Be A Double Threat In 2016

By Zach Ratchford
Athletic Communications Student Assistant

Walter Payton once said, "Never die easy. Why run out of bounds and die easy? Make that linebacker pay. It carries into all facets of your life. It's okay to lose, to die, but don't die without trying, without giving it your best". Tyvis Smith, the Panthers standout senior running back is the embodiment of this quote, punishing defenders on a regular basis with his physical style of play.

Smith, who burst on to the scene in 2015 as one of the conference's best backs, had the luxury of learning from a true pro his first three years at UNI. Former Panther and current Arizona Cardinal David Johnson helped set the standard of what a UNI running back is supposed to be and had a lasting impact on Smith.

"David taught me to always keep learning and to remain calm while letting the game come to me," the Central High School standout said.

In his early years at UNI, Smith would make an impact on special teams and in limited action as a running back. However, when the 2015 season began, their would soon be no doubt who would be the concrete presence in the Panther backfield.

The Davenport, Iowa native totaled 1,079 rushing yards in 2015, while posting an impressive 5.9 yards per carry and seven touchdowns on the ground. He would be the No. 23 highest rusher in FCS and help lead UNI to a No. 15 rank in rushing offense. Aside from his fantastic numbers in his first year as the primary starter, Smith left a lasting impression on defenders who never wanted to hit him more than they absolutely had to.

Smith an all MVFC honorable mention selection and senior quarterback Aaron Bailey would become the first duo of Panthers to both total over 1,000 yards in a single season in program history. They, along with others, would contribute to break the Panthers single-season rushing record set in 2007 by over 400 yards, totaling 3,266 rushing yards.

Entering the 2016 season with a better understanding of the full time job, Smith is expecting improvements in different facets of his game.

"I'm definitely more confident this year and I know what I can do," Smith said. "My receiving ability has also improved and I feel like I can help more in the passing game."

This is music to new co-offensive coordinator Ryan Mahaffey's ears. The Panthers are expected to have a high flying offensive attack this year, with a heavy focus placed on receiving out of the backfield. This expansion in work load excites Smith, knowing that his talents will be on full display.

"I have better hands and better routes now," Smith said. "I'm not nearly as stiff as I was last year and I've been catching the ball more."

This increase in ability and role has Smith primed for a dynamic senior season where expectations will be high. Individually and collectively this year, Smith has lofty goals.

"Individually I want to pick up where I left off last year and help this team win games, and collectively we of course want to win the championship."

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Spring Football: Smith Looks To Be A Double Threat In 2016

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Aaron Bailey

Tyvis Smith

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