CenTex Area Upperclassmen Runners: Rd. 4 Playoff Edition

These running backs have been huge parts of their team's success in the postseason, and they look to continue their run to the state title. We have all ends of the spectrum of runners in this piece, and each one is instrumental to their respective offense. Texas high school football playoffs are like none other in the nation, so watch for these young men in round 4.    Brendan Fournier had a monster game for the Vandegrift Vipers last week against a tough Cibolo Steele defense, racking up 272 all-purpose yards in the 3rd round matchup. The 6'2", 215-pound senior rushed for 148 yards and found the end zone twice, proving he's a force to be reckoned with. Fournier isn't just a powerhouse on the field; he's also a sharp student-athlete, earning an offer from Columbia University with more offers on the way. With his blend of size, speed, and football IQ, Fournier is quickly making a name for himself as one of the top playmakers in the playoffs.     [player_tooltip player_id='595886' first='Vann' last='Hopping'] has been on a tear in the playoffs for Lake Travis, totaling 378 rushing yards and seven touchdowns over the last two games, with an additional touchdown reception to cap off his impressive run. The 5'10", 195-pound junior has been a beast all season, racking up 1,482 rushing yards at an eye-popping 8 yards per carry, along with 29 total touchdowns. Hopping's ability to run you over or run around you has made him one of the most complete backs in the state. With his bruising style and breakaway speed, he's proving to be an all-around playmaker for the Cavaliers.     Broderick Taylor has been nothing short of spectacular for Corpus Christi Miller this season, rushing for 1,890 yards at nearly 9 yards per carry while adding over 300 receiving yards and 37 total touchdowns. The 5'9", 175-pound junior has shown off his explosive speed, quickness, and ability to break ankles with his smooth cuts and sharp moves. Committed to UTRGV, Taylor's balance, great hands, and agile hips make him a threat in every aspect of the game. Whether it's on the ground or through the air, his playmaking ability is putting him on the map as one of the playoff's most electrifying talents.     Derek Garcia has been a dominant force for Sinton this season, rushing for over 1,000 yards in just nine games, averaging 8 yards per carry, and scoring 13 touchdowns. The 5'11", 190-pound junior is a shifty, north-south runner who's tough to stop once he gets going, consistently running through defenders with his strong, steady base. Garcia's relentless style and proven ability to make plays have made him one of the most reliable backs in the area, and he's hitting his stride at the perfect time as the postseason continues. With his combination of power and agility, he's poised to be a key factor for the Pirates down the stretch.     Sean Garza has been the driving force behind La Vernia's big playoff run, leading the Bears to the fourth round for the first time in years. The 5'10", 185-pound junior has racked up nearly 2,000 rushing yards at 7 yards per carry, averaging over 150 yards per game and scoring 23 touchdowns. Garza's relentless work ethic, combined with his blazing speed, great footwork, and outstanding field vision, make him a threat for six on every play. Known for his ability to make defenders miss, and his powerful leg drive, Garza's "dog mentality" and exciting style of play have made him a must-watch as the Bears continue their deep playoff push.

These running backs have been huge parts of their team's success in the postseason, and they look to continue their run to the state title. We have all ends of the spectrum of runners in this piece, and each one is instrumental to their respective offense. Texas high school football playoffs are like none other in the nation, so watch for these young men in round 4.