We are continuing are ACC position rankings,with a look at the ACC’s top running backs.
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Quarterbacks | Wide Receivers | Offensive Linemen | Tight Ends | Defensive Linemen | Linebackers | Cornerbacks | Safeties | Special Teams
1) Duke Johnson, Miami
Miami’s Duke Johnson was on his way to a 1500+ yard rushing season, before suffering a broken ankle against Florida State. He still had 920 yards on 145 carries. He’s a projected as a 2nd-3rd round pick, and could move in the first round with a strong season should he forgo his senior season. Outside of Jameis Winston he’s the ACC’s best Heisman Trophy candidate. Johnson has great speed and vision. When he’s healthy, Johnson is one of the country’s best running backs.
2) Karlos Williams, Florida State
How is having an 8 yards per carry average look to you? That was Florida State’s Karlos Williams rushing average last year. He had 730 yards on just 91 carries. In some circles he considered a better NFL prospect than Duke Johnson. He’s 6-2, and 225 with a perfect blend of speed and power. He’s a converted defensive back, who is still learning the nuances of the running back position. Now as the number one back at Florida State, the sky’s the limit on what kind of season he could have.
3) Kevin Parks, Virginia
In a season with few bright spots, Kevin Parks was a bright spot for the Virginia Cavaliers. He rushed for 1,031 yards last year with 11 TDs. Considering how anemic Virginia was offensively, it’s almost amazing Parks still had the season he had. Parks is also good pass catcher. He had 38 receptions to finish tied for second in that category for the Cavaliers.
4) James Conner, Pittsburgh
James Conner is a Pittsburgh sophomore with loads of potential. He literally ran over Bowling Green in the Panthers bowl game for a Pittsburgh bowl game record of 229 yards. He finished with 799 yards for a 5.5 yards per rush. Conner also had 8 touchdowns. He has a similar build to Karlos Williams at 6-2, 230, but he doesn’t possess the speed Williams has. That said he’s a powerful back, who I think could have a breakout season this year.
5) Dominique Brown, Louisville
Senior running back Dominique Brown is Louisville’s leading returning rusher. He had 825 yards yards last year and 5.1 yards per rush. Brown has some versatility. He also caught 24 passes for nearly 10 yards a reception. I like Brown, obviously, I have him 5th on this list, but the talented Michael Dyer had a solid spring and is waiting in the winds if Brown struggles or gets hurt. The Cardinals are loaded at running back.
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