2023 Stock Risers: Running Backs

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The season is almost here! As we inch closer to the 2022 opener, we're going to continue to give you in-depth analysis on some of the best prospects from around the state. Today, we're back looking at the 2023 class and a handful of running backs that could see their stock rise this fall. After doing a deep dive into the film vault, I came away quite impressed by these rising seniors. Their talent levels do vary, with a few having already garnered some FCS offers; while others are still waiting on that coveted first scholarship. I do know one thing, all of these young men have talent, and a large part of where they will end up on signing day is based on how they perform on the gridiron this fall. Keep an eye on these guys because I think a few of them are going to put up some gaudy numbers this fall. Will all that being said, here's who you need to know! </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:separator {"className":"is-style-wide"} --> <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-wide"/> <!-- /wp:separator --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><em>Jared Siler, 6' 190, Neosho</em></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul><li>Accelerates through arm tackle attempts.</li><li>Side steps are explosive with instant acceleration into top gear.</li><li>Hips are loose for easy change of direction.</li><li>Speed is quite deceptive.</li><li>Has the vision to spot small cutback lanes.</li></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:separator {"className":"is-style-wide"} --> <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-wide"/> <!-- /wp:separator --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><em>[player_tooltip player_id='101710' first='Keshawn' last='Ford'], 5'11" 185, DeSmet</em></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul><li>A natural north and south runner.</li><li>Generates plenty of YAC with a vicious running style.</li><li>Runs behind his shoulder pads, consistently finishing runs falling forward. </li><li>Is a strong pass protector who looks to punish rushers.</li><li>Superb contact balance.</li></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:separator {"className":"is-style-wide"} --> <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-wide"/> <!-- /wp:separator --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><em>Steven Hall, 5'11" 205, MICDS</em></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul><li>Fantastic navigating through traffic in the open field.</li><li>An intelligent gap scheme runner who lets his blocks set up in front of him before bursting through the second level.</li><li>Cuts are violent yet smooth.</li><li>Has no wasted steps when redirecting east and west.</li><li>Is an extremely effective weapon in the screen game.</li></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:separator {"className":"is-style-wide"} --> <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-wide"/> <!-- /wp:separator --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><em>[player_tooltip player_id='199482' first='Darrien' last='Jones'], 6' 190, Park Hill South</em></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul><li>Stiff arm has some snap ready to go.</li><li>Absorbs contact and keeps on his path.</li><li>Looks to deliver ferocious blows as a blocker past the line of scrimmage.</li><li>Shows sure hands as a pass catcher.</li><li>Proven to be quite creative on his own.</li></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:separator {"className":"is-style-wide"} --> <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-wide"/> <!-- /wp:separator --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><em>Kevin Emanuel, 5'8" 190, Eureka</em></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul><li>A ton of god-given contact balance. </li><li>Has some serious jolt between the tackles.</li><li>Will make defenders look silly in 1 on 1 tackle situations in space.</li><li>Understands how to set up a defender with false body language.</li><li>A willing pass catcher out of the backfield who can adjust to make tough catches on back shoulder throws.</li></ul> <!-- /wp:list -->