Sorting Out the Running Back Position

Running back Darrell Scott could have a huge season after sitting out last season. (Picture credits go to www.usfnation.com)

As Spring ball fast approaches, there are some interesting position battles that could be coming up. The first one is the running back position. Mo Plancher has graduated, leaving Demetris Murray, Marcus Shaw, and Bradley Battles left battling for position. Mix in transfers Darrell Scott and Dontae Aycock and suddenly the Bulls have a log jam at the position.[keep reading]

Entering Spring, Demetris Murray is the starting running back. Murray has experience, size, and enough speed to hold the position. He is a reliable running back that made major progress in 2010 at the position and proved he can carry the load. Holtz will go with a rotation of running backs, but coming into Spring, he is the most experienced back the Bulls have.

Marcus Shaw jumped on the scene and showed a few glimpses of his elite speed at the position. He is not as big as Murray, so don't expect him to get 20 carries a game, but he could be a change of pace type back if he is able to get to the outside. He missed several games due to academics, but should be in good standing entering Spring. Shaw could be used in the slot, but gives the Bulls a speed option.

Bradley Battles had one game, showing a nice burst and a violent running style. He was injured (knee) and missed the rest of the season. Bradley shined last year in training camp and should do the same. If he is healthy, he should get plenty of touches this season. He could be a nice weapon in the backfield.

The Darrell Scott and Dontae Aycock enter the mix. Scott sat out last season, but he was practicing with the team and will make an impact his season. He resembles Mike Ford, but with a better burst throw the line and just more power. He could be an every down type back, but Holtz mixes in the running backs, so he won't get every single carry (but when he does, watch out). Aycock is coming off of knee surgery so I expect him to be limited early in Spring as he rehabs and gets strength back. He is a very fast runner and physical as well. He could be a great weapon coming out of the backfield or lined up at receiver.

This will be a very interesting battle for the running back position. The Bulls have a mixture of speed and size in the backfield, which gives the offense a new dimension. The Bulls will sort out the running back mix in the Fall practices and anyone of these backs could win the job.