Boise State Football: Two-deep 2017 depth chart projection
By Zach Bigalke
Running Backs
Starting running back: Alexander Mattison
Backups: Ryan Wolpin
Jeremy McNichols was the workhorse for the Broncos the past few seasons. He was selected in the fifth round of the 2017 NFL Draft by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and now Boise State will need to find another feature back to take over the lead role in the backfield.
The likeliest candidate for the position is sophomore Alexander Mattison. As a true freshman, Mattison spelled McNichols in all 13 games last season and averaged 4.9 yards per carry. At 5-foot-11 and 215 pounds, Mattison is built more like former Broncos star Jay Ajayi than McNichols or Doug Martin. He has limited experience contributing to the passing game, but look for Mattison to emerge quickly as one of the Mountain West’s most proficient running backs.
Diminutive redshirt senior Ryan Wolpin could also see carries this year. Formerly at FCS Northern Colorado, Wolpin has mainly played on special teams over the past two years after sitting out 2014 following his transfer. Built more like McNichols and Martin, Wolpin offers a second talented option for Harsin and offensive coordinator Zak Hill.
Three-star recruit Drake Beasley could also be in the mix for playing time this season, unless the coaching staff decides to redshirt him and preserve another year of eligibility.