2012 Spring Preview: Running Backs

The Spring will be a critical time for the USF coaching staff as they evaluate their running back position. With Darrell Scott leaving early to the NFL and recent JUCO signee Michael Pierre not on campus yet, the Bulls will be looking for someone to rise up and the depth chart behind Demetris Murray and take some of the rushing burden off of the senior's shoulders.

USF has several running backs that are untested and will need someone out of the group to raise their level of play starting with the spring practices and games.

Demetris Murray (6-0 210-pounds) enters the Spring as the most experienced running back and figures to the majority of snaps this season (will split with Pierre and others). Murray showed great skill last year, displaying power, speed, and also the ability to catch passes out of the backfield. He could have a big season, but the Bulls need depth behind him. Marcus Shaw (5-9 182-pounds) who was suspended for two games during his sophomore season and reinstated, is a fast running back that has gotten limited carries and has been primarily a kick returner He has the speed to be a break-away back, but has to show more at practice and get on the field.

After that, there is not much experience at running back. Bradley Battles (5-9 202-pounds) was suspended for two games last year and never got a carry during the season. The former 4-star recruit out Miami is a talented player, but can't seem to find his way to the field. Freshman Willie Davis (5-9 203-pounds) redshirted last year. He is a small, change of pace back, that could make an impact early. Offensive coordinator Todd Fitch has even mentioned he is a player to watch this spring.

The Bulls will have to find depth and will need to keep Murray healthy as well. Lindsey Lamar could get a few more carries this season in the backfield. Wide receiver Victor Marc, a big frame player, could also get a few carries as well as the Bulls look for depth


The Bulls will also be looking at the fullback position. While it is not the most used position, it helps for blocking and rezone schemes.

Chris Breit (5-11 229-pounds) returns to the backfield after being a serviceable player in his junior year to replace Richard Kelly in the backfield. Spencer Cavalieri (6-2 220-pounds) is in the mix to get carries. Freshman Tye Turner (6-3 262-pounds) will have a chance as well to get carries, but will need to prove himself in practice. Sophomore Justin Wilcox (6-0 220-pounds) returns as well.


Spring is going to be key for the running backs and fullbacks for USF. Murray needs to stay healthy and the others need to step up and provide some depth behind him. Will it be Shaw? At this point, no one is really sure and the Bulls will need to answer that question quickly. Breit appears to be the fullback, but Turner could break through and push for the starting job.