Preseason RB

Running back is most often the easiest transition of any position into the NFL. What makes a running back great at the next level has a lot to do with what the player does instinctively.That's not to say that there are not a ton of refinements that creates a truly elite back, reading defenses pass blocking etc. In evaluating the talent at running back this year I will be focusing on what the player does instinctively, but here are some other very key elements that are sometimes over looked but also very important at the next level. FEET, do his feet move with a purpose. Wasted motion in the NFL kills productivity. Mileage, this is a common theme for me; backs take a lot of punishment in the NFL and players that carry too much of a load in college rarely last. Does the back fit schematically, some teams use their RB as a work horse. Just point the stallion down hill and let him go. West coast based offenses want a back that can be more versatile and won't need to be as large, but will need great acceleration and agility.

That being said here are my top 5 backs to watch this year.

1. Trent Richardson, Alabama- Mark Ingram left Richardson some big shoes to fill. We got a pretty good preview of how he would do and oh man did he impress. Last year while filling in for the injured Ingram Richardson impressed with his rare combination of power and speed. Splitting this time with Ingram has kept the mileage low on Richardson; if he gets through the year injury free Richardson will be a major Heisman contender and possible top 5 pick.

2. Edwin Baker, Michigan St.- Baker carried the offense much of the year, posting an impressive 5.8 yds/ carry and 13 TD's. Baker lists at 5'9 208; though a little short enough backs have proven over the last decade that prototypical NFL backs are not necessarily 6 footers. Michigan State's outlook is very good this year, I believe Baker will once again carry a very good offense and Baker will open some eyes this season.

3. La Michael James, Oregon- A number of people are projecting James as the best back in college football this year. I think his role will be limited in the NFL; coaches will need to spend some time teaching the finer points of the passing game. However, he is an incredibly elusive back with great speed that reminds me of Brian Westbrook. Durability could be a big isues in the NFL.

4. Christine Michael, Texas A&M (Dark Horse)- The Aggies have the best one two punch in college football this year with Cyrus Grey and Christine Michael. Probably this is the best tandem since Auburn with Cadillac Williams and Ronnie Brown. Cyrus Grey is listed as the starter and seems to be getting most of the attention due to his stellar performance at the end of last year after Michaels's season ending injury. Christine was the better back last year though and had he not been injured would be getting serious consideration in the Preseason Heisman talk. Michael is Listed at 5'11 215 but runs like he is 6'4 250, with unmatched acceleration and great instincts for finding the whole he reminds me of Chris Johnson.

5. Knile Davis, Arkansas- Knile Davis quietly racked up over 1,300 yds. and 13 TD's in Petrino's high powered offense. Offer shadowed by Ryan Mallet and an incredible passing attack Davis had six games over 100 yds and 4 of them  over 150 yds. At 230 lbs. Davis has blazing speed; he will outrun everyone in college and most in the NFL. We don't see that kind of size speed ratio often, that extra poundage will pay big dividends in the NFL.