SEC Spring Football 2015: Top 5 Position Battles

Sep 6, 2014; Auburn, AL, USA; Auburn Tigers running back Roc Thomas (9) gets past San Jose State Spartans cornerback Dasheon Frierson (5) during the second half at Jordan Hare Stadium. The Tigers beat the Spartans 59-13. Mandatory Credit: John Reed-USA TODAY Sports

Auburn Tigers: Running Back

How lucky has Auburn been at the running back position the past two seasons? Tre Mason and Cameron Artis-Payne were absolute workhorses for the Tigers. Rhett Lashlee has to be salivating at his options this season, too.

The nation’s best JUCO transfer, Jovon Robinson was able to work through bowl practice with Auburn in 2014 and may be the early frontrunner to start. Robinson amassed a whopping 3,198 yards and 43 touchdowns in just two seasons at Georgia Military College.

However, Roc Thomas and sophomore Peyton Barber will look to steal the show and prove they can be the correct gear for the “Gus Bus.” Sophomore Thomas showed flashes that he could be the future feature back last season as he racked up 214 on just 43 carries.

Thomas has the body type similar of Mason, and that is certainly a compliment to the young running back. He will need to step it up in the weight room to gain some power to his speed. Barber is the wildcard that has the potential to beat out both Thomas and Robinson for the starting roll.

Barber, who is a solid 225-pounds, has the balance of power and speed that both of the predecessors at running back before him had. The young sophomore only had 10 carries as a freshman last season, but averaged 5.4 yards per carry totaling 54 yards.

Whoever manages to grasp the starting job will see a heavy workload and a chance to lead the SEC in rushing as Auburn’s running backs have led the conference the past two seasons.

My prediction: Jovon Robinson edges out Thomas and Barber.

Next: Who replaces Dylan Thompson at South Carolina?