The Good, the Bad, the Ugly: Running Backs

North Dakota State

If there is one thing we know for sure, this team is going to be physical. Last season, the Bison had one of the best rushing attacks at the FCS level, averaging over five yards per carry. North Dakota State will use their rushing attack to set up the passing game. Whether they can replicate that success at the FBS level remains to be seen. But if I were a betting man, I would expect the Bison to have one of the best rushing attacks in the Group of Six.

The Bad

New Mexico

This is a risky pick; the Lobos were expected to have one of the best rushing attacks in the conference last season and their numbers ended up being a bit mediocre. Scottre Humphrey was an elite running back at the FCS level, but he struggled to produce for the Lobos last season. If Humphrey can stay healthy and adjust to this level of football, it would be a huge boost to this program. But, there are enough questions at the quarterback position to leave me feeling a little concerned about the Lobos’ rushing attack.

Air Force

Controversial pick, I know. The Falcons are always statistically one of the best rushing attacks in the country. But they have dealt with some inconsistencies the last few seasons and it is reflected in their record. This team needs to average five to six yards per rush if they are going to return to glory, and they have to find a way to have fewer negative plays. I know Szarka is coming back, but the coaches were not sold on his ability to hold onto the ball. It will be interesting to see if this team takes steps in the right direction.

Wyoming

Similar to the Falcons, this program has been built on a physical, run-first style of football. Finishing ninth in rushing last season was an unexpected and unacceptable result. This team does not have good enough play at the quarterback position to make up for a poor rushing attack. I don’t have enough confidence in the current group of running backs to feel like this year’s team will be much better.

The Ugly

Hawaii

The Rainbow Warriors don’t run the ball well and they won’t run the ball well this year unless something drastically changes. The offensive style is a run-first approach, and as a result, the rushing numbers suffer. That’s fine, but the running numbers need to be better if they are going to have any hope of catching opposing defenses off-guard. If Hawaii can somehow develop a consistent rushing attack, it could be a special season on the islands.

UTEP

The Miners had one of the worst rushing attacks in the country last season, finishing 116th in total rushing yards. The Mountain West is full of physical teams that are going to put pressure on the Miners. If they have any hope of being competitive, they have to run the ball. While much of the pressure will be on the running backs, it will really come down to if this team gets better on the offensive line.

How do you feel about the running back position for your team? Leave your thoughts in the comments below.