Sac Joaquin Playmakers: Top Rushers Dominating This Season

<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Sac-Joaquin Section is loaded with offensive firepower this year, and a standout group of running backs has been setting the tone every Friday night. From record-breaking performances to workhorse efforts carrying undefeated teams, these top rushers are proving to be the engines of their offenses and some of the most dynamic playmakers in Northern California this season.</h2>    At 6'0”, 210 pounds, the Air Force commit is a true workhorse back who's been the backbone of the Oakdale offense all season. He leads his section with 2,095 rushing yards and 28 touchdowns on just 181 carries, ranking second in the state and pushing for the top spot as the season wraps up. A hard-nosed, downhill runner, he thrives on contact running with low pad level, excellent leverage, and consistent forward momentum. He's tough to bring down in space and uses a well-timed stiff arm to shed would-be tacklers and finish runs with authority. A classic power back with the discipline and toughness that should translate well to the D1 college level.      At 5'10”, 205 pounds, the sophomore back has already made a big impact, posting 1,517 yards and 16 touchdowns on 189 carries. He's currently ranked as the No. 5 running back in the 2028 class in the PRZ state rankings and holds an offer from Sacramento State. A physical, aggressive runner, he plays with a strong, compact frame and shows a balanced blend of speed and power. He's more than just a between-the-tackles bruiser with his ability to catch the ball out of the backfield adds versatility to his game, making him a complete back with D1 ability. Strong genes, with brother being a top 2024 recruit that pulled in 10 offers and plays at San Jose State.      Pettis is a downhill power back and physical presence at 6'0” 215 lbs. With 1,461 yards and nine touchdowns, he's proven to be force between the tackles that can wear down defenses over the course of a game. Does a good job reading his blocks and using his patience to find an open lane before he attacks it. He allows his blocks to develop and shows strong vision to find space. Moves well laterally showing he can slide and cut smoothly before getting square up the field. A physical and controlled runner who combines his size, vision, and balance to pick up tough yards consistently.      At 5'10”, 185 pounds, Fleming is a dynamic back has put together a record-breaking season for Tokay High School, rushing 184 times for 1,420 yards and 18 touchdowns. He shattered a 47-year-old single-season rushing record, cementing his place in program history. A quick, explosive runner, he hits the hole with burst and acceleration, turning small openings into big gains. His ability to change direction and reach top speed in an instant makes him a constant home-run threat every time he touches the ball. A high-ceiling playmaker with the speed and instincts to take over a game.     With 1,394 yards and 19 touchdowns on 134 carries, the 2027 prospect has been a driving force behind Manteca's undefeated season. A big-time playmaker and one of the top underclassmen in the Central Valley, he's shown the kind of polish and production that projects well to the next level. His game speed pops on film—he hits creases decisively, showing sharp cuts, strong vision, and balance through contact. He consistently absorbs hits while keeping his forward momentum, turning would-be short gains into chunk plays. A well-rounded back whose D1-caliber skill set checks all the major boxes: burst, toughness, and playmaking ability. Four offers to date from Nevada, Washington State, Sacramento State, and Cal.