Auburn’s running back room is thin right now, as they only have three scholarship running backs currently on campus, but coach Cadillac Williams is still excited about his group.
Everything starts with the star running back, Tank Bigsby, who is seen by some as a potential Heisman candidate. Williams praised his play and how he is off the field.
“The sky is the limit for this young man,” Williams said. “You’re talking about a guy who has a great attitude. A guy who is chasing excellence, not only on the football field but also off the field… He’s wise beyond his years. It’s his time to put in the work and lead this team.”
Depth at running back in the SEC is important, and Williams couldn’t help but praise his No. 2 guy, Shaun Shivers.
“I cannot say enough great things about Shaun Shivers,” Williams said. “He is one of my favorite players I’ve had an opportunity to coach. He is super important to this team, he’s been playing since his freshman year, he’s a dependable guy, he’s had a really good spring... I’m looking forward to seeing him in this offense.”
Last season, Devan Barrett opted out of the season, and this year he is back, but playing his original position of running back. Barrett arrived at Auburn as a running back before moving to wide receiver then defensive back.
“You could tell early on through his conditioning, he had to knock off some rust,” Williams said. “He is starting to get in that football shape, starting to get more confidence. If he continues to work hard, I do think he will have an opportunity to help us.”
A running back that is not on campus yet, but will be in the summer is freshman Jarquez Hunter, and he is another guy that Williams raved about.
“Jarquez Hunter, wow,” Williams said. “I’m telling you, man, I am excited about this kid. You talk about a kid who works hard. I mean, this guy constantly sends me videos of him working out. I think the opportunity to come in and play early is there… But, man, I’m just telling you - that kid’s attitude and work ethic, that kid is going to be successful.
Running backs are going to be thrown the ball in this offense, and Williams spoke on how important it is to be an all-around back.
“To play in this offense you’ve got to be a complete back,” Williams said. “One of the best mismatches on the field is a running back against a linebacker.”
Williams was asked about how the run game would look like in coach Bobo’s offense and his answer was very straightforward.
“Man, we are going to run the football,” Williams said. “We’re gonna fly off the ball and get downhill… We’re gonna be physical.
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Henry is a sophomore from Dallas, Texas. This is his second year with The Auburn Plainsman.
Twitter: @Henry_Patton23
