Missouri Football: Previewing the Tigers’ running backs
A lot is expected of Missouri’s running backs after an extraordinary season from freshman Damarea Crockett, who isn’t the only star at a deep position.
Last season was not a high point for Missouri football, but if there were some things to take away, it would be sophomore Damerea Crockett has the potential to be one of the most feared running backs in the SEC.
Crockett surprised everyone by posting an incredible 1,062 yards, 10 touchdowns, and averaged 6.9 yards per carry, while not even playing the entire season.
Crockett is small, quick and explodes through the hole and can shake off defenders with ease. He’s also be a threat as a receiving back. Crockett has the potential to be the focal point of the offense and have another incredible year.
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Luckily, Crockett doesn’t have to worry about being the only back the Tigers can rely on. Senior Ish Witter returns for his third year and is hoping to improve on a solid year.
I had my doubts about Witter when he first played in 2015 and struggled a lot in his first year, but 2016 was a rebound year for Witter, who posted 750 yards, 6 touchdowns and averaged 4.6 yards per carry.
He’s proven to be better as a solid back up to Crockett. While Witter may see less touches this season due to the play of Crockett last year, he should remain a solid option in short yardage situations.
Junior Nate Strong emerged late in the season as a solid third option for the Tigers, especially during the Arkansas game, when he scored two goal line touchdowns.
Strong is a bigger back than Witter and Crockett and is an effective goal line rusher who can push through defenders and ga
in the extra yardage. He has potential and may have a more prominent role this year, possibly becoming the second option to Crockett in the backfield.
Next: Missouri football preview: Offensive line
Missouri has a fearsome backfield with plenty of options for running through defenses and should give fans a show, this year. Their first test will be against Missouri State on Saturday, September 2nd.