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Alabama Football: Breaking down the Crimson Tide’s 2017 RB situation

By Erich Hilkert

Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide running back Bo Scarbrough (9) runs the ball in for a touchdown against the Clemson Tigers in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide running back Bo Scarbrough (9) runs the ball in for a touchdown against the Clemson Tigers in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /
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Alabama football has plenty of options in the backfield for 2017, but let’s take a look at just how deep the Tide are.

If you’re Nick Saban, you have to be pleased with what is returning in the backfield for the 2017 season. Although Alabama football came just short of another national title in 2016, the Tide have the pieces to compete once again in 2016.

From the top of the depth chart to the bottom, the Crimson Tide are absolutely loaded in the backfield.

Let’s take a look at what the running back situation will look like for Alabama football in 2017.

Returning key reserves

Josh Jacobs

Jacobs is somewhere between Harris and Scarbrough. Teammate Calvin Ridley called him a “bowling ball” because he is so difficult to tackle. His leg strength is impressive and his ability to cut has left a defender or two dazed. He is an instinctual player who seems to find all the right holes in the defense.

BJ Emmons

Emmons didn’t get a chance to shine, but it is clear the coaching staff thought very highly of him. Even after he was slowed by injuries before eventually being shut down for the season, head coach Nick Saban made a point of crediting Emmons. Alabama may try to find a spot for him in special teams initially.

Newcomers

Najee Harris

Harris is the most highly regarded recruit at Alabama since Derrick Henry. Expect to see the other Harris earn meaningful snaps right away. Harris is big and physical, while also being quick and elusive. He’s also an excellent pass catcher out of the backfield.

Brian Robinson                                 

Robinson received far less fanfare than Najee Harris, but he impressed coaches this spring with his speed. According to reports, he is probably the fastest player on the team. Yes, the team, not just the running backs, all while weighing 218 pounds. There is a belief he may end up the team’s fourth option after Damien Harris, Scarbrough and Najee Harris. Time will tell.

The X-factor: Jalen Hurts

Hurts ended up as the Tide’s second-leading rusher with 954 yards and 13 rushing touchdowns in 2016. Expect Hurts to continue to run the ball reasonably well, but with the influx of talent at running back and Hurt’s offseason work, it is likely he will try to stay in the pocket more often in the upcoming season. His rushing numbers might take a hit, but his passing numbers will improve. Also, new offensive coordinator Brian Daboll will more than likely run more designed run plays than former offensive coordinator Lane Kiffin did in 2016.

Next: NFL Mock Draft 2018: Way-too-early edition

Conclusion

Alabama has an abundance of talent at running back. It remains to be seen how the coaches will divide the carries, but is a good problem.

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