Makhi Frazier Commits to Ole Miss: Former Michigan State RB Joins SEC Playoff Contender
Makhi Frazier, one of the most sought-after names in the transfer portal this cycle, has found his next home-and it’s a big one. The former Michigan State running back is headed to Ole Miss, choosing the Rebels over offers from Ohio State, Indiana, and several other high-profile programs.
Frazier’s decision comes after a strong 2025 campaign in East Lansing, where he led the Spartans in rushing with 520 yards and two touchdowns, averaging a solid 4.5 yards per carry. What makes those numbers even more impressive is the context: he put up that production behind an offensive line that, outside of standout All-Big Ten center, was inconsistent at best. Conner Moore and Luka Vincic were bright spots and are expected back, but overall, it was a tough sled for any back trying to find room to run.
Still, Frazier made it work. His vision, balance, and ability to create yardage after contact turned what could’ve been a forgettable season into a breakout year-enough to catch the attention of some of the biggest programs in college football.
After visits to Indiana and Ohio State, Frazier made a trip to Oxford this past weekend. He didn’t need long to make up his mind. Shortly after the visit, he committed to Lane Kiffin’s Rebels, joining an SEC team fresh off a College Football Playoff appearance.
This isn’t the first time Ole Miss has dipped into the Michigan State backfield. A few years ago, they flipped Kedrick Reescano from the Spartans before signing day.
While Reescano never logged a carry for the Rebels and eventually transferred to Arizona, the potential was there. Now, Ole Miss is hoping Frazier can be the one who sticks and contributes in a big way.
What This Means for Michigan State
Losing Frazier stings-there’s no sugarcoating that. He was the workhorse in a backfield that didn’t have many answers last season, and his departure leaves a void. But Michigan State hasn’t stood still.
Head coach Pat Fitzgerald has been aggressive in retooling the running back room. Not only are Zion Gist, Brandon Tullis, and Jace Clarizio expected to return, but the Spartans also added three backs from the portal: Jaziun Patterson from Iowa, Marvin Parrish from Western Kentucky, and Cam Edwards from UConn, who’s currently projected to be the lead option.
With new running backs coach Devon Spalding now in the mix, Michigan State has depth, versatility, and a fresh start. The key will be the offensive line-if that unit takes a step forward, this backfield could surprise people.
Frazier’s move to Ole Miss is a big win for the Rebels and a testament to his talent. But don’t count out the Spartans just yet. They’ve reloaded, and with the right pieces in place, they might just turn last year’s struggles into this year’s strength.