Texas is going with 5 RB's
D’Onta Foreman – D’Onta has size and speed. He’s a physical runner, unafraid of contact, but it’s his ‘long speed’ that catches your eye when breaking through to the 2nd-level. One hopes D’Onta’s in tip-top shape, as this offense will create creases for him and allow him to showcase his speed, outrunning defenders. A reason D’Onta may have been held out in season’s past was his pass protection. That will have to improve, especially considering the prospect of Shane Buechele starting.
Chris Warren – Much like D’Onta, Chris is big and powerful. Except, Chris is about 20 pounds heavier with just about as much speed as D’Onta (may be even). That is a scary mass of angry young man, one that even Malik Jefferson says he hates tackling! I can’t even imagine being asked to tackle Chris. They’d have to move the hospital closer to the field! It’s going to be fun picking apart film and catching linebackers and defensive backs trying to avoid tackling him. It will happen, more often than you think. Mark my words. The same pass protection issue holds true for Chris as well and for all the backs. So, I won’t mention it again.
Kirk Johnson – Kirk is an electric athlete. When I see him run, the impression I get is that his consciousness hasn’t caught up with his speed. Does that even make sense? Unfortunately for Kirk, he was injured last season, shortly after he exploded down the sideline, racing past his blocking, incredible. Kirk stands to make a huge difference this season in the new offense, as Gilbert will likely want a back that can reach the perimeter with ease or explode through interior creases and past safeties. If his hands are good, he and the other backs will also benefit from space conceded by defenses in the flat. The race will be on for Kirk. I just hope his body holds up and he’s responding well to the coaching.
Kyle Porter – This is a young man I’m very excited about. He was amazing in high school, though he did play for a powerhouse program. Nevertheless, he has some of the most impressive feet I’ve seen and runs with power. He’ll likely be behind Foreman and Warren, but according to reports, he’s definitely pushing Johnson for 3rd on the depth chart. It’ll be interesting to see how he adjusts to the college game. That’s all I’ll say about maybe the most talented back on the roster.
Tristan Houston – Houston has flown under the radar due to his red-shirt as well as the talented backs ahead of him on the depth chart. He’s also a talented runner himself and given the number of plays Gilbert likes to run, fans will likely see Houston more in 2016. Houston’s issue is likely related to maturity and size, if he’s packed on some good weight, there’s a good chance he’ll be ready to contribute. (Gabe)