High Steppers Class of 2023: Running Backs
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Running backs have always been difference makers and in today’s game they are more versatile with the ability to play major roles offensively. Not only are they elite runners, but being a gifted blocker, as well as a threat in…
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Continue ReadingRunning backs have always been difference makers and in today’s game they are more versatile with the ability to play major roles offensively. Not only are they elite runners, but being a gifted blocker, as well as a threat in the passing game, has raised their value in recruiting. Texas has been a prime recruiting ground for running backs for schools around the country and the class of 2023 is loaded with talented players, who will be at the forefront of college football in the very near future. Here are several highly ranked ball carriers.
Owens has elite burst, he is shifty in space, he possesses the body control to get small in the hole, he gets vertical quickly and he has the ability to change gears without breaking his stride. He has an array of moves to make opponents miss in the open field, he keeps his shoulders square through initial contact and he has the long speed to take it the distance from anywhere on the football field. Owens is a powerful runner, he has a stout, compact build tailor made for the next level and the Texas A&M signee will compete for early playing time in Aggieland. Reuben, while at El Campo played in a run heavy offense, but he had plenty of reps during 7v7 to show his excellent pass catching skills. He has strong, large hands that engulf the football. Owens has a unique set of traits that will enable him to hit the ground running in 2023.
Sanford is explosive with elite burst, he has superb vision, which enables him to set up his blocks with ease and he gets to his top speed quickly. Re’Shaun is a twitchy athlete, he changes direction effortlessly without decelerating and his ability to plant, cut and get vertical makes him special. He excels in the open field, he can cut on a dime and his ability to make defenders miss is what makes him a lethal weapon. Sanford is one of the most explosive running backs in the state of Texas in the Class of 2023 and the University of Houston signee will explode on the scene as the Cougars head to the Big 12.
Allen has been one of the most underrated athletes in the class of 2023. Owen is a powerful, patience runner, with excellent vision and he has the burst to break the long runs needed to drive an offense. Allen is special between the tackles, he runs with great pad level and his strength to break tackles makes his game well rounded. During his time in the Dragon backfield, Allen was a weapon in the passing game. He could line in the slot in a five wide set, catch passes in the screen game and showed that he could run multiple route combinations, which allowed him to be a threat no matter where he lined up. Allen leaves Southlake Carroll as the all-time leading rusher with 7,600 yards and 120 touchdowns. In his final season in 2022, Allen rushed for 2,156 yards with 37 touchdowns, averaging 152 yards a game while averaging 8.5 yards a carry. Look for Allen to continue to push the envelope and be productive when he steps on to the campus at Air Force.
Wisner is an explosive athlete with great burst, he has a lean, compact frame with ability to shed and asbord tackles and he gets stronger the more touches he gets throughout a game. He is “Mr. Versatile”, showing off a swiss army knife type of game, where he can line up at running back, wide receiver, slot receiver and his prowess as a return man paid dividends for Desoto as they marched to a 6A-DII State Championship. As a running back, he displays patience, with excellent vision by setting up his blocks cleanly, he is ultra quick with quiet feet and his ability to make one cut and get to his top speed make him special. Tre’s value in the quick screen game, his superb route running combined with his excellent ball skills, showed up each week as the Eagles beat a path through their opponents on their way to a state crown. Wisner’s explosive play making ability and his skill set to play multiple positions, will allow him to push for early reps at the University of Texas.
Davis has been giving defenses fits for four years and the Mississippi State signee will arrive ready for action. Seth is phonebooth quick, he is shifty in space and his acceleration in the open field enables him to separate from defenders at the second level. He uses great pad level, runs with excellent leverage and he has the ability to get small, while keeping his shoulders square through contact. Davis’s ability to stop, start, cut and get vertical in a hurry are special traits in his game. Seth left no doubt that he was a “High Stepper” during his career at Katy High School by churning out 6,691 yards and 76 touchdowns as a Tiger running back. He will no doubt have the opportunity to assert himself into the Bulldog depth chart when he arrives in Starkville.