Baylor Football: 3 position battles to watch during spring ball

The go-to Running Back:

What was considered a strength last year coming into the year, was a massive disappointment. Partly, due to the offensive system, partly to the offensive line and lack of run blocking.

With John Lovett transferring to Penn State, it opens up opportunities for a consistent three-down back, heading into 2021. Although Trestan Ebner is the most experienced and explosive, does not mean he will be the go-to running back.

The most carries he’s had in his career in a season is 69 in 2018, where he eclipsed double-digit carries just three times.

Similar to the quarterback position, the inexperience leaves a question as a true candidate for the position.

Starter: Trestan Ebner

Ebner has become one of the best receiving targets out of the backfield in the Big 12. The converted wide receiver from high school, Ebner’s calling card is catching the ball in the flats or over the middle, to create big plays.

https://twitter.com/TrestanEbner/status/1220785102701170689?s=20

Whether he stays at running back under Grimes scheme will be found out soon. His 1,231 receiving yards makes him an easy candidate as Baylor’s All-Time best receiving back, and if healthy, should turn more heads this upcoming year.

Potential go-to: Qualan Jones

Sqwirl Williams would be the backup. However, after tearing his ACL against Iowa State, the uncertainty of his return places Jones as the backup. Jones is a humongous back, standing at 5-11, 230 lbs.

With John Lovett transferring to Penn State, this gives the opportunity for Jones to play some crucial snaps. The definition of a power back, Jones being used in third-down and goal-line situations will be quite a bit of his role.

Surprise picks Taye McWilliams, Jonah White.

Each player has different areas of expertise and could be used in their own way. Both got added playing time when major injuries hit the Bears. McWilliams got five of his 13 carries in the season finale, meanwhile White got 12 touches in the Oklahoma game the week before.

The position is so young, as each players are freshmen, after playing in less than four games last year. So the element of surprise could be intact, especially with a new system surrounding the players.

Williams has shown explosiveness, with straight-line speed, that is better than any at the position. However, he tore his ACL against Iowa State for the second time in his Baylor football career and is unsure of his status for the season or how much he will be used.