Senior-to-be running back Carlos Martin gets high praise from Running Backs Coach Nick Whitworth.

"Carlos is one of the best character people I've ever coached. He's a completely honest, selfless guy. He is all about the team and helping the players around him. He's unique in today's culture… I've never coached a player as genuine as him," said Whitworth of the 2018 recipient of the Pokey Allen Endowed Scholarship.

And that character shows up in Martin's responses to what he did to improve prior in the 2018 season.

In the off season, he said, "I tried to improve my leadership by being more vocal in the weight room and on the field…also, by working my hardest to be an example for the younger guys".

And what does he enjoy most about playing?

"I enjoy running the ball the most because I get to help the offense move the ball, potentially making big plays and touchdowns. But, I also don't mind blocking because that also helps out the offense," said the 5-11, 205-pounder out of La Habra High School, in Orange County, southeast of Los Angeles.

Whitworth was also high on Martin's skill set. "He breaks tackles, he blocks well and is a good receiver out of the backfield," he said.

In 10 games last fall, Martin gained 339 yard in 66 attempts for a 4.7 yard average with two touchdowns. He caught 11 passes, gaining 113 yards including a long of 44 yards and a touchdown.     

It was the most Martin had played at PSU and he said he worked hard in the off season to improve his strength and speed. He felt the hard work paid off.      

"I feel I did well this past season. It was the most I've played since being here at PSU. There's always room for improvement, but I'm happy that I was able to help the team whether I was running or catching the ball or blocking for the quarterback or other teammates," said Martin.      

The 2018 season also provided the highlight for Martin so far during his Viking career.      

"Beating Montana was probably the highlight of my season because no one believed we'd win that game but us. It was one of the best feelings I've had playing football," he recalled. Martin had four carries for 17 yards in PSU's 22-20 win over Montana.      

Looking forward to next season, Martin is "looking to improve my speed and flexibility. I want to show the coaches I can also run outside the tackles." Speed training, yoga and working on his agility will help him do that, he believes.       

PSU began recruiting Martin early in his high school career and he turned down other Big Sky schools to become a Viking because "they just showed me more love than anyone else. And, when I came on my visit, I loved the campus. I'm from California where the seasons seem like they stay the same. But, at PSU, everything changes throughout the seasons."

In the meantime, Whitworth is looking forward to Martin's contributions during the remainder of his Viking career.       

"Carlos is a power back. He breaks tackles. He's really a jack of all trades. He leads by example. He's always on time, always gives full effort and never backs away from a challenge," Whitworth said.