Running it Up: NJ’s Top Rushers
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New Jersey is full of talented running backs. Through the 2023 season so far we have see plenty of runners not only run for over 1000 yards, but also get into the double digit touchdown category. These are some of…
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Continue ReadingNew Jersey is full of talented running backs. Through the 2023 season so far we have see plenty of runners not only run for over 1000 yards, but also get into the double digit touchdown category. These are some of the running backs making the biggest impact on the field this fall.
Logan Pych Logan Pych 6’0″ | 175 lbs | RB Vernon | 2024 NJ has been a menace to opposing defenses. One of the leading rushers in the state, the Vernon product has amassed 1623 yards and 17 rushing touchdowns so far in 2023. Logan is one of the most reliable runners between the tackles in the state. He consistently lowers his shoulder and brings it to defenders, driving his feet to gain additional yardage. He is a bigger back that is hard to bring to the ground, but is also surprisingly quick once the hole opens up and he takes it.
Another lead running back with great size, Kenny Smith Kenny Smith 5’11” | 175 lbs | RB Hammonton | 2025 State NJ has been the whole package for Hammonton. With 1158 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns on the season, Kenny has the rare combination of speed and strength that is hard to stop. Kenny has the ability to accelerate quickly and get to the second level before defenders even notice. A player that runs low and can take on a hit, Kenny is also elusive enough to shake off would-be tacklers and continue on. Kenny will be on everyone’s radar come 2024.
Jonah Glenn Jonah Glenn 5’8″ | 160 lbs | RB Jackson Memorial | 2026 State NJ is the youngest back on this list, but is still making the same impact as the best in the state. The Jackson running back is another that can run through arm tackles and keep his legs churning, but is also a speedster. He makes cuts with precision and can also unleash a burst of speed to carve in and out of defenders. With 1362 yards and 12 touchdowns as a sophomore, Jonah Glenn Jonah Glenn 5’8″ | 160 lbs | RB Jackson Memorial | 2026 State NJ is just getting started and is sure to shine for years to come.
A player attempting to run for the most touchdowns in the state this season, Chris Scully Chris Scully 5’10” | 210 lbs | RB Colts Neck | 2024 NJ has hit the 20 touchdown mark already. And with 1372 rushing yards to go with it, he is a true feature back for Colts Neck. Another bigger back in the state, Chris runs with authority and imposes his will on defenders. He is one of the most dominant backs in the state, and is a quick decision maker with the ball in his hands. Chris can make one cut and be gone, having the ability to dart through the tackles somehow untouched. Colleges should be giving Chris Scully Chris Scully 5’10” | 210 lbs | RB Colts Neck | 2024 NJ another look.
Sylas White Sylas White 5’9″ | 165 lbs | RB Boonton | 2025 NJ is one of my favorite running backs in the northern part of the state to look out for. The Boonton product has been dominant running out of an option heavy scheme, and I would be very interested to see how his skills would be applied in a spread out offense. With the current offense, Sylas has a lot of opportunities to show defenses what he is capable of. He is a very quick cutter and has the ability to rip defenders away from him. With 1118 rushing yards and 17 touchdowns on the season, Sylas will continue to gain recognition this upcoming offseason.