David Avit in Uniform for Villanova Football Against Illinois State

David Avit entered the 2025 season as Villanova Football’s No. 1 running back, but he hasn’t played since suffering a knee injury against Towson on Nov. 8. He’s in uniform during warmups ahead of the Wildcats’ national semifinal game against Illinois State, indicating he should be available as Villanova tries to punch their ticket to the FCS championship game.

Avit has 123 carries for 683 yards and eight touchdowns across eight and a quarter games this season, exiting early in the win over Towson. The Wildcats have a talented stable of backs behind him, including power back Isaiah Ragland (163 carries for 721 yards and two touchdowns) and home run threat Ja’briel Mace (117 carries for 887 yards and 11 touchdowns), so they managed to survive Avit’s absence without missing a beat… but having one of the best skill position players on the team in a must-win game could prove a massive boon for Villanova.

Click here for Philadelphia Sports Now‘s preview of the Illinois State matchup as the Wildcats try to make the championship game for their second time in program history.