Seven Junior Running Backs That Could Breakout This Fall
I’m back contributing in the buckeye state, and honestly, I couldn’t be happier. Ohio is such a talent-rich state, filled with excellent coaching and diehard football communities. Today, we’re looking at which junior running backs could have a breakout 2022…
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Continue ReadingI’m back contributing in the buckeye state, and honestly, I couldn’t be happier. Ohio is such a talent-rich state, filled with excellent coaching and diehard football communities. Today, we’re looking at which junior running backs could have a breakout 2022 campaign. Each prospect listed contributed at the varsity level last fall, with some playing significantly larger roles than others. However, each recruit showed a ton of promise on film, and I believe each one could take a big step forward beginning this August. With that being said, Here’s who to watch for!
Jason Williams, 5’8″, 170, Warren
- Plays much bigger than his listed height and weight.
- Is a north and south back that runs behind his shoulder pads.
- Consistently finishes runs, falling forward.
- Has enough speed to run away from the defense.
- Superb production last fall, totaling 1,415 yards rushing & 18 total touchdowns.
- Averaged a whopping 9.2 yards per carry.
Christian Lynch, 5’9″ 175, Ursuline
- Patience and burst go hand-in-hand.
- Vision to spot linebackers overpursuing.
- Explosive change of direction.
- An extremely effective zone runner.
Nasir Phillips, 5’8″, 190, Westerville South
- Muscles through collisions with his feet still churning.
- Lets his blocks set up in front of him before accelerating through a seem.
- Never shies away from contact.
- Uses his size as a weapon to get lost behind the offensive line.
- Understands the importance of following his pullers on gap scheme runs.
Antuan Gardner, 6’ 205, Niles McKinley
- Impressive size for a back with his skillset.
- Calm through chaos.
- Has a relentless running style in the redzone.
- Can make unblocked defenders miss in tight areas.
- Extremely athletic, proving to be a stat stuffer on the defensive side of the ball.
Marquise Hall, 5’10″, 180, Padua Franciscan
- Impressive burst through the hole.
- Has some nasty shake at the second and third levels of the field.
- Violent jump cuts lead to instant acceleration.
- Phenomenal balance and body control.
- Can create when blocking schemes breakdown.
Steven Napier, 5’10″ 200, St. Xavier
- A vicious running style that usually takes the second or third tackle attempt to bring him down.
- Generates a ton of force on his stiff arm.
- Bounces off tackles and keeps on his way.
- Always looking to lower his shoulder to cap off runs.
- Had a limited varsity role for state powerhouse St. Xavier but produced when given the opportunity.
Nick Oros, 5’10″, 170, Perrysburg
- Easily navigates through traffic.
- Can accelerate at the drop of a hat.
- Top-notch ball security throughout.
- Cuts seem to be fairly effortless.
- Underrated top-end playing speed.