Way Too Early Look Ahead - Running Back

Darrell Scott is ready to run all over the Big East (Picture:www.usfnation.com)

Time to look at the running backs in the way to early look ahead series. Running backs finally got more carries in 2010 under Holtz as he changed the offense and gave the rushing load to the backs, not the quarterback. Mo Plancher is gone (after what seems like 20 years) and now the Bulls will look to sort out who will be the go-to runner and get the majority of the carries. Here are the 2011 running backs. [keep reading]

Demetris Murray - 5'10" 199-pounds

Murray was the number two running back behind Plancher. Murray proved to be a reliable runner, possessing both power and ability to break to the outside. Murray reminds me of another Plancher, not the fastest runner nor the strongest power back, but a nice mixture of both. Murray is one of the few returning running backs this year that played last season, so he should get the starting position heading into the season. He will split carries with the talent behind him, but opening day, Murray will certainly get plenty of carries.

Bradley Battles - 5'8" 201-pounds

Battles only played in a few games before an ACL injury ended his season. He is healthy, but continues to rehab and work out as he hope to be ready by the fall. When healthy, Battles is a tough runner that has explosive speed in the open field. He can run up the middle, but is better on screens, options, or out of the shotgun formation. If fully healthy, he could have a great year.

Others: The Bulls have 3 talented running backs, but all 3 have questions marks surrounding them. Darrell Scott is a big running back (a better version of Mike Ford?). Coaches are very impressed with how big and powerful he is at running back and is in incredible shape. The former Colorado running back sat out last season (NCAA transfer rules), but will be ready to role this season. It will be interesting to see how good he can be. Dontae Aycock, the transfer from Auburn, is another big running back that has incredible speed. He is rehabbing from a knee surgery last season, but should be at full health and ready to run this Spring. Marcus Shaw emerged last season as a fast, elusive back, but academic issues caused him to miss the rest of the season. If he has his academics sorted out, he should get some touches this season due to his speed.

The Bulls also signed Willie Davis in this year's recruiting class, but he will probably redshirt in his first season due to the depth at the position.

Scott and Aycock are the talk of the town right now. Both are highly regarded players, but haven't played in a year. It will be interesting to see how explosive they will be this season and if all the talk is worth it. Murray, Battles, and Shaw will help give the Bulls a solid running back corps that should help carry the offense and open up the passing game.