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) /

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Yet another member of the high school running back class of 2017. This class could end up being an all-timer.

Etienne didn’t come with the billing of the previous two backs on this list, as he was ranked 16th-best at his position by the 247 Sports Composite. He may have had the best season of all three of them, though, running for 766 yards and 13 touchdowns on 7.2 yards per carry. He’s got absolutely blazing speed, which he displayed in massive performances against Louisville (98 yards on just six carries) and Boston College (113 yards on nine carries).

With run-happy quarterback Kelly Bryant returning alongside a stacked group of backs – junior Tavien Feaster and seniors Adam Choice and C.J. Fuller will all receive carries – Etienne may not be in line for feature-back type playing time until next season. That’s just fine. No matter what role he’s filling for the Tigers, Etienne is one of the country’s most dynamic players.

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