KeyShawn Carpenter has been appointed as the running backs coach for the Illinois State Redbirds, completing head coach Brock Spack's staff for the 2026 season. Carpenter succeeds Mike Grant, who moved to a coaching role at Iowa. With his Chicago roots and extensive coaching experience, particularly at North Dakota State and Wisconsin-Stout, Carpenter is expected to enhance the team's running game, which Spack identifies as crucial for their offensive strategy. Carpenter expressed enthusiasm for joining Illinois State, highlighting his appreciation for the opportunity to be part of the program.

By the Numbers
  • In 2023, Wisconsin-Stout's offense averaged 430.8 yards per game and 293.9 passing yards, ranking third in the WIAC.
  • During his playing career at UW-Stout from 2014-2018, Carpenter accumulated 1,044 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns.
State of Play
  • Carpenter's familiarity with the Missouri Valley Football Conference, gained during his time at North Dakota State, is expected to be valuable for the Redbirds.
  • Spack emphasizes the importance of a strong running game for both offensive performance and team success moving forward.
What's Next

As Carpenter prepares for the 2026 season, he will focus on developing an experienced group of running backs and integrating his strategies to enhance the team's offensive effectiveness. Early recruitment efforts and team cohesion will also be pivotal in establishing success.

Bottom Line

KeyShawn Carpenter's hiring reflects an emphasis on strong offensive leadership for the Redbirds, signaling a commitment to excelling in the upcoming season. His track record and local connections may bolster Illinois State's recruiting and overall competitive edge.