Russell rushed for 1,264 yards and nine touchdowns on 220 carries during the 2002 season. At the end of the season, Russell was selected by Big Ten coaches as a first-team running back on the 2002 All-Big Ten Conference football team.
In the 2002 season, Russell amassed 1,264 yards and nine touchdowns while carrying the ball 220 times.  He earned recognition as a first-team running back on the 2002 All-Big Ten Conference football team.