While quarterback Jordan Lynch was the prime source of offense during the course of the regular season, expect to see an increased role in the Orange Bowl from running back Akeem Daniels.

With running backs Leighton Settle and Keith Harris both ruled out against Florida State in the Orange Bowl, Daniels should get a chance to continue his recent success.

Early in the season, Daniels received limited carries and was not able to get into much of a rhythm; therefore, he did not produce the way he would have liked to.

But in the last two games of the season, Daniels put up big numbers and showed what he is capable of.

In the regular season finale against Eastern Michigan, Daniels became the first running back since Garret Wolfe in 2006 to rush for four touchdowns in a single game. He rushed for a 112 yards on 12 carries.

In the MAC Championship game against Kent State, Daniels proved himself yet again, as he carried the ball 17 times for a career-high 128 yards, including a 1-yard touchdown run in the second quarter. Daniels also led the Huskies in receiving, with four receptions for 67 yards.

Late in the game was when Daniels stepped up the most, rushing for 85 yards in the fourth quarter and overtime. In double-overtime, Daniels also came up with a 23-yard catch to put the Huskies at the two-yard line of Kent State.

Due to the recent, strong play from Daniels, Lynch believes Daniels will be important against Florida State in the Orange Bowl.

“Akeem was like that all year,” Lynch said. “He just didn’t get as many touches, he goes under the radar with some of the stuff he does, with blocking and catching and everything. He fits in perfect with game plan, we’re going to do what we do and Akeem should have a great game.”

Despite his strong production, Daniels is not lobbying for more carries or playing time.

“I think I’m deserving of whatever the coaches plans to do for me or for the offense are,” Daniels said. “I’m not a person that’s complaining about getting the ball more or less. I just take whatever the coach decides to give me.”

Coach Rod Carey loves what Daniels can do for his team as he lines up at fullback, tailback, wide receiver, and plays on special teams. Carey believes Daniels will be a key to the Huskies success.

“[He is] really important,” Carey said. “I mean, he does everything. He is a workhorse. He is really key.”