This could easily describe the running back situation at Auburn for 2011. While two top flight backs return from the National Championship season in Michael Dyer and Onterio McCalebb, there is very little experience or numbers once you get past these two. Dyer, one of the top backs in the league, who also broke Bo Jackson’s freshman rushing record in 2010 with 1093 yards, returns as the feature back, but will have to run behind a retooled offensive line as four of the five starters have departed. The 5’9†206 pounder looks to be a cross between Emmitt Smith and Rudi Johnson and has shown both the ability to move the pile and run away from defenders. Dyer was named the BCS Championship game MVP and could eclipse 1000 yards again if the new line gels in front of him.
Onterio McCalebb had numerous highlight reel moments in 2010 and will hopefully provide many more this season. At barely over 170 pounds, Coach Gus Malzahn has used the speedy back perfectly, getting him on the corner where he does his damage. McCalebb tallied 810 yards in 2010 with an astounding 8.5 yards per carry, which further goes to prove his big play ability. The bottom line for these guys and Auburn’s season, hinges on the two staying healthy. If both these backs are consistently on the field in 2011, the running game should be solid, if not very strong. If either or both miss any time, things may change drastically.
Currently on the roster behind Dyer and O’Mac, are Anthony Morgan, Davis Hooper and incoming true freshman, Tre Mason. Morgan is now in his third position in an Auburn uniform, having had stints at wide receiver and defensive back during his first two years. At Brantley High School, it was at running back where he made his name and hopefully, he can transition back to his natural position and contribute in the running back rotation. Davis Hooper is the other tailback on the roster and has been used sparingly in mop up duty, totaling 37 yards in 2010. After Hooper, you have to look true freshman, Tre Mason, to find the next tailback. Mike Dyer certainly proved that a freshman can step in and make a huge impact on this level and Mason assuredly comes in with the credentials to do that as well. The 5’10†190 Park Vista, Florida native rushed for 1,643 yards and 24 TD’s last season and with his size and speed, looks to be a great fit for Malzahn’s offense.
Last year’s fullback duties were handled capably by Eric Smith; however, Smith has left the building and questions remain as to who can take over that role. A lot has been made over the last two seasons about big Ladarious Phillips and whether or not he will be the man or eventually move back to defense. At 291 pounds and very good athleticism, he certainly seems like he could play the part but it seems obvious that he is still a big question mark, at least in the fans' mind. Converted defensive end, Chris Humphries got some looks in the Spring and look for Malzahn to use Lutz at that position some as well. Overall, the numbers are a bit worrisome. The starters are dynamic. After that, there’s a lot of hope and maybe’s and could be’s.
Thoughts?
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