College Football: Top 15 running backs entering 2018, ranked

LAS VEGAS, NV - SEPTEMBER 30: Running back Lexington Thomas #3 of the UNLV Rebels slips a tackle by linebacker Jamal Scott #42 of the San Jose State Spartans during their game at Sam Boyd Stadium on September 30, 2017 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images) /

3 of 16

How does one weigh potential against results when evaluating running backs? We’ve got to give more emphasis to what each player has accomplished on the field to date, otherwise Cam Akers might be in the top five.

Akers did nothing as a true freshman to lessen the hype that surrounded him as the top-rated running back recruit in his class. On a Florida State team that uncharacteristically struggled in 2017, Akers was a bright spot, running for 1,053 yards and seven touchdowns. In games against Duke (15 carries, 115 yards) and Syracuse (22 carries, 199 yards), he showed why so many expect him to be an All-American candidate before his college career is over.

The good news for Akers is that new coach Willie Taggart has developed a reputation as a running back whisperer. In Taggart’s eight seasons as an FBS head coach, he’s had seven running backs eclipse the 1,000-yard mark. Expect big numbers from Akers in 2018.

Home/College Football News