Impact Freshmen: Running Backs

Playing on varsity as a freshman is an accomplishment in itself. Having the size, speed, and strength at that age to compete at a high level is easier said than done. The following running backs have been consistent contributors for their varsity programs and are starting to blossom under the lights. Here's who to know! <hr /> <em><strong>Kaden Hamilton, 5’7", 160, Hiram</strong></em> On tape, Hamilton shows terrific burst and acceleration through the hole. He can spot small creases and quickly kick it into high gear to get to the second level. He's a tough runner on the goal line who will get the ball and immediately get vertical, running through whoever gets in his way. His patience, allowing blocks to set up in front of him, was quite impressive for a back his age. <iframe src="//www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/16279755/617b6ab3688f160344d386ac" width="640" height="360" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe> &nbsp; <em><strong>Cameron Bolton, 5'7", 160, Central</strong></em> A calm and composed back with great change of direction. Bolton is strong through initial contact and has shown the ability to consistently run through arm tackles. Despite being only one hundred and sixty pounds, Bolton has a powerful lower half that he uses to seamlessly cut up on defenders. On tape, he reads blocks awfully well and is willing to bounce a run if the edge isn't set. <iframe src="//www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/15152688/612fd43f7bdcb10aec0a3f98" width="640" height="360" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe> &nbsp; <em><strong>Luke Windom, 5'8", 150, Bowdon</strong></em> An explosive back with the speed to run away from the defense. On tape, Windom swiftly finds a seam and is off to the races downfield. He's a steady runner between the tackles who can get you the extra yards using power or shake. He runs with a low pad level and shows great balance after initial contact. He is one fun prospect to watch and should put up some gaudy numbers over the next few seasons. <iframe src="//www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/15203630/61832990f31c94044cf07d7a" width="640" height="360" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe> &nbsp; <em><strong>Shane Marshall, 5'9", 210 Irwin County</strong></em> Marshall uses pure strength and a compact frame to bowl over his opponents. He's so physical between the tackles and looks to deliver shots on opposing linebackers in the hole. His feet are constantly moving, even through contact with an opponent. His physical running style and subtle cutting ability make him someone people should keep an eye on moving forward. <iframe src="//www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/13402962/6151c7bb7bde00054c31e81c" width="640" height="360" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe> &nbsp; &nbsp; <em><strong>Josiah Allen, 5'10", 175, Wheeler</strong></em> A game-breaker with a good mixture of vision and urgency. Allen displayed soft hands out of the backfield and outstanding contact balance. He can sidestep defenders or lower his shoulder to simply run through them. He can stop on a dime at any moment and always seems to be falling forwards finishing off his runs. <iframe src="//www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/15930364/61815c5d32e6c50148ee4fff" width="640" height="360" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe> &nbsp; <span style="font-size: 24pt;"><em><strong>Other Names to Know</strong></em></span> <em><strong>[player_tooltip player_id="33918" first="Donovan" last="Johnson"], 6’1", 190, Calvary Day</strong></em> <em><strong>Carmello Jeffrey, 5'8", 170, Central Gwinnett</strong></em> <em><strong>Zo Smalls, 5'8", 165, Savannah Christian</strong></em>