Penn State Football: 5 breakout candidates to watch in spring 2018
By Shane Lunnen
How do the Nittany Lions replace running back Saquon Barkley? The answer is they cannot. Barkley’s abilities do not come around very often. However the Lions are fortunate to have another running back itching to get his chance with Miles Sanders.
Playing behind Barkley the last two years has not yielded many opportunities for Sanders. On 56 carries, he has 375 yards, three rushing touchdowns and one touchdown reception. Sanders has also put the ball on the ground three times in his limited time, something he must clean up as he becomes the starter.
The former five star recruit out of Pittsburgh has waited his time and now is looking to prove his worth. What may benefit Sanders is running behind an improved offensive line. As many times as Barkley made insane highlight reel plays, he also had to run behind a porous offensive line, especially earlier in his career.
Next: NFL Draft 2018: Ranking the Top 10 running backs
The offensive line could now finally be a strength for the Lions and Sanders would surely benefit from it. Barkley’s shoes will be tough to fill, but Sanders is up to the task and poised for a huge year.