Northwest Ohio: Running Backs to Watch |Vol.1|

The 419 Football area has not disappointed when it comes to running backs in the past few years. In the 2020 season, we watched some seniors dominate the football field, like [player_tooltip player_id="34302" first="Prentiss" last="Reasonover"] of Central Catholic and Jarett Gredeman of Napoleon. Now don’t get me wrong here, they will be missed, but the talent bed is full! Here are some of the top RBs to watch in the fall of 2021. <span id="more-78267"></span> <h4>Name: <strong>Connor Walendzak </strong></h4> <h4>High school: <strong>Perrysburg </strong></h4> <h4>Class: <strong>2023</strong></h4> <h4>Height: <strong>5’11 </strong></h4> <h4>Weight: <strong>195lbs</strong></h4> <em><strong>Scouting Notes</strong></em>: Connor is a football player. His ability to play at a high level as a super sophomore speaks volumes about his potential. He can rush with the best of players in the state, but his willingness to block is what will separate him from other prospects. If here can improve on his lateral quickness he will be very tough to stop. Connor earned 1st team All-State this past season. <ul> <li>Has the ability to get positive yards after the first contact often</li> <li>Has good acceleration/burst</li> <li>Very good in pass pro</li> <li>Fast and Physical</li> <li>Potential to break all school rushing records</li> </ul> &nbsp; <h4>Name: <strong>Josh Watson</strong></h4> <h4>High school: <strong>Central Catholic</strong></h4> <h4>Class: <strong>2022</strong></h4> <h4>Height: <strong>5’7 </strong></h4> <h4>Weight: <strong>180lbs </strong></h4> Scouting Notes: Watson’s running style is quick, explosive, and powerful. Yeah, he has the right combination of skills to become a household name in 2021 as he will be the presumed starter at CCHS. Watson was able to make the most of his minutes this season but give fans and coaches a glimpse of what’s to come. <ul> <li>Quick; one cut type back</li> <li>Great Acceleration</li> <li>Track speed</li> <li>Feet never stop moving.</li> </ul> &nbsp; <h4>Name: <strong>Michael Chipps</strong></h4> <h4>High school: <strong>Napoleon</strong></h4> <h4>Class: <strong>2022 </strong></h4> <h4>Height: <strong>5’9</strong></h4> <h4>Weight: <strong>180lb </strong></h4> Scouting Notes: Chipps started the season as the second back and found his way into the feature spot due to injury. As a two-way player, Chipps was able to get more reps on the offensive side and showcased his ability to handle the lead back role. <ul> <li>Good burst</li> <li>Downhill runner</li> <li>Physical back</li> <li>He plays with good leverage.</li> </ul> &nbsp; <h4>Name:<strong> Connor Smith </strong></h4> <h4>High school: <strong>Gibsonburg </strong></h4> <h4>Class: <strong>2023 </strong></h4> <h4>Height: <strong>5’7 </strong></h4> <h4>Weight: <strong>165lbs </strong></h4> Scouting Notes: Smith reminds me of Michael Chipps based on his running style and offense. When you’re a sophomore and get All-State honors, you must be doing something right. Smith is not the shiftest running back but knows how to follow his blockers and run to daylight. Developing speed and weight is a must for the young prospect with a bright future. <ul> <li>Downhill runner</li> <li>He reads his keys well</li> <li>Ability to break arm tackles on the move</li> <li>Tough player</li> </ul>