Preview - Running Backs

[FUwolfpacker]

https://furmanpaladins.com/news/2024/8/ ... -line.aspx

Looks like Smith won’t be available this fall. It was always a possibility with how bad his injury supposedly was. Now, Hendrix said he wouldn’t be available this fall, so maybe he’s available at the end of the year? I’m guessing he’s just going to miss the whole football season though. Would imagine (hope) he’ll get an injury waiver.

Robinson is down a few pounds and Hicks looks quicker from what I’ve seen so far. I feel fairly confident both of those guys are going to have good years. Hicks has been such a good and willing blocker, I hope we don’t lose that completely with him carrying the ball more this year.

As I’ve said for a year now, I’m really excited to see what Hall can do. I think he can be a pretty special all-around back for Furman.

[The Jackal]

Deep group. Good balance of experience and depth with some talented youngsters.

[gofurman]

Good stuff. I do think Smith has an extra gear.. I hope he heals up and doesn't lose any of that. And just gets better in general - I wish him the best. Keep at it young man !

[FUpaladin08]

This is an important group to block for a young QB and take pressure off the passing game.

[youwouldno]

It's clearly the least amount of RB depth the program has had under CCH, considering that Smith is out. Certainly not a deep group.

Robinson/Hicks/Hall should be a good group but one injury and it's a problem.

The contrast with the WR position is very indicative of how the staff is envisioning the offense this season.

[gofurman]

It's clearly the least amount of RB depth the program has had under CCH, considering that Smith is out. Certainly not a deep group.

Robinson/Hicks/Hall should be a good group but one injury and it's a problem.

The contrast with the WR position is very indicative of how the staff is envisioning the offense this season.

Then injuris are a huge factor in a college season. Especially 63 scholarship FCS. Man last year was rough on RBs. Roberto. Robinson Smith. Hicks hamstring - I think these may have hurt us more than the casual fan wants to admit. Blocking for QB etc

[FUwolfpacker]

Agreed. Last year was uncommonly tough on the RB’s in regards to injuries. I would think it is unlikely that we could have that bad of luck at RB again this year. At least I hope not!

We have yet to mention Bailor Hughes. Hughes hasn’t seen the field much other than special teams, but I thought he looked ok the few times he carried the ball last year. I’m not sure how many times it has happened since 2002, but the two examples I can think of (Daric Carter and Wayne Anderson) handled the transition from WR to RB pretty well. Granted, Anderson was a RB for most of his time here, but I think a 5th year guy like Hughes will probably handle that transition just fine. How well Hughes, and Hall, handle the blocking will probably determine how much they play early in the year. I think all 4 are going to have to play a good bit though.

[FurmanATT]

If this time #Paladins rushers stay healthier ... -- MD
https://wellpilgrim.wordpress.com/2024/ ... t-come-up/