Wisconsin Football: Projected 2-deep depth chart for 2017

Running Back

Starting running back: Bradrick Shaw
Backups: Chris James

Enter the most riveting position race of the 2017 season. With the loss of Corey Clement and Dare Ogunbowale, it only makes sense the starting gig would belong to Bradrick Shaw, the only other tailback from a year ago to get consistent action as he ran for over 450 yards and a handful of touchdowns.

Joining Shaw in the backfield is the veteran Pittsburgh transfer that head coach Paul Chryst brought over from Pittsburgh, Chris James. No matter who the starter is, it is assumed that James and Shaw will see a pretty even split of carries and snaps this year, specifically depending on the situation. Shaw saw a lot of goal line time last year with the smaller, quicker Clement and Ogunbowale and will likely see that again this year, even with James.

A major misconception entering this preseason is that is only a two-person race in the backfield between James and Shaw.

Another fellow Pittsburgh transfer joining the Badgers is Rachid Ibrahim. Him and veteran Taiwan Deal will likely battle over the the No. 3 spot, which in essence can be considered the back up due to the fact that James and Shaw are basically going to be splitting the No. 1 spot. Deal and Ibrahim could see significant action if one or both of James and Shaw struggle.

With all that being said, do not assume it is going to be a 50/50 split with Shaw and James. Coach Chryst usually likes to ride the hot hand and with both of these guys’ explosive talent, we might be seeing a roller coaster of time between the two.

One more guy to keep an eye on is freshman Jonathan Taylor. While he is joining a crowded backfield, big things are expected from Taylor and it would not be surprising to see Chryst get him some real-time action right away.