The junior RB has been carrying the rock well for George’s Tech all year long in a split backfield and will need to continue that consistent play into the playoffs. Joel has accounted for just over 500 yds rushing on the season but has been the one to find the end zone the most for the Hawks with 11 TDs on the season.

Joel runs real tough for his size, getting going downhill shoulders forward. Able to run between the tackles and find space, he can power his way forward. Joel’s ability to run hard and keep his legs driving, while also getting skinny and finding spaces/lanes in all the mess is what makes him such a good red zone option. He is a RB with a nose for the end zone and he will have to continue that ability into the playoffs.

Joel Buck is a reliable and physical north-south runner who currently excels in short-yardage and early down situations. He’s decisive when he carries the football and gets upfield quickly. Buck’s highlights show him cutting inside and moving forward instead of dancing around the line of scrimmage. He regularly breaks through arm tackles and does a good job of keeping his balance while absorbing contact. A few of Buck’s touchdowns near the goal line show he can be a dependable red zone option. He also had a couple of plays that showed he’s capable of being a solid receiving option out of the backfield. He showed patience and vision on several runs as he followed his blocks and adjusted when needed. Buck needs to continue to work on his explosiveness and acceleration. He has good vision but needs to improve his quickness and top-end speed.