Ole Miss Football: 2017 midseason grades by position

Running back

Grade: C-

I’ll be honest, this grade would be a lot lower if not for the past two games by Jordan Wilkins. Wilkins rushed for 101 yards against Alabama, quite the accomplishment for a team that doesn’t really run the ball well. That said, the Ole Miss running game has been all but nonexistent this season. There is talent on the line and talent in the backfield but ever since 2012 Ole Miss has never had a truly ‘good’ running game.

Jordan Wilkins and D’vaughn Pennamon have been the bell cows of the Ole Miss running game this season. They will continue to be the bell cows and as of no, the running game looks to be getting better.

It was encouraging to see the running game get better against Alabama and Auburn, two very good defenses. The Rebels offense also began to get more swing passes out to the backs in the Auburn game and it worked. Wilkins had a couple big plays against the Tigers. I would expect more running back involvement as the season goes on, but I certainly don’t expect a vast improvement.