MSU's football staff has added two more skill position players to its recruiting class.

Tailback Kris Bush, from Louisiana's John Curtis Christian High School, and defensive back Delton Ashburn Jr., from Virginia's Fork Union Military Academy, have both verbally committed to MSU.

Bush, a 6-foot-1, 195-pounder, ran for 1,200 yards and 20 touchdowns last season. He helped the Patriots capture the state championship in each of the past two seasons. He runs a 4.48 40-yard dash.

The online recruiting magazine Rivals100.com ranks Bush, who visited MSU late last week, as the No. 42 running back in the nation.

Ashburn Jr., a speedy 6-foot, 180-pound defensive back, also committed to MSU during his visit last weekend, his coach Mickey Sullivan said.

Both recruits committed during a busy time where MSU has landed four athletes since Thursday.

"I liked the coaching staff," Bush said, adding head football coach John L. Smith was "straight up" with him. "I'm studying business and they have a good business program.

"I can't wait. The hitting might be a little bit tougher, but that's all."

Bush said his biggest asset is his versatility, in that he can run and catch the ball, but he expects to be played as a running back next season.

Bush added he hopes to get immediate playing time.

MSU could have an opening in the backfield, following freshman tailback David Richard's departure from the team last week. Richard was the Spartan's leading rusher last season with 611 yards.

Curtis High head football coach J.T. Curtis said Bush is a tough player and that he wasn't even looking at MSU, until Smith contacted him.

"I think he'll do just fine," Curtis said. "First off, he's a quality player. He's a great character kid - he's never been in trouble. He's just a great kid."

Bush also considered Tulsa, Colorado and Louisiana Tech.

Collegiate coaches are not allowed to comment on recruits until they sign a National Letter of Intent. Signing Day is Feb. 5