ESPN College Football

Jordan Todman is not Donald Brown. Let's just go ahead and get that out of the way.

Anyone who expects Todman to replicate Brown's amazing 2008 season for Connecticut is placing undue expectations on the sophomore running back. A 2,000-yard back doesn't come along every day.

"Replacing 2,000 yards is not going to be easy," Todman said. " It will definitely be a goal. I'll shoot for the stars and I'm not going to aim low. But we'll have to all work together as a team to try and replace those 2,000 yards."

Here's the thing, though: Todman might not have to do as much for the Huskies as Brown did. And he might just bring them another dimension.

As a freshman last season, Todman actually averaged more yards per carry -- 6.3 -- than Brown, albeit in far fewer touches. He ran for 296 yards and had three touchdowns, including a 50-yarder against Syracuse.

"I got my feet wet and got used to the game," he said. "I was thinking of redshirting, but I definitely have no regrets now. I got my touches and blended into the offense behind Donald."

At 5-foot-9 and 189 pounds, he doesn't have the pure strength of Brown, and it's doubtful he'll be able to recreate Brown's menacing stiff-arm. But he may be shiftier and more slippery.

"He has great agility and sees the holes really well around the corners," quarterback Zach Frazer said. "It's nice to be able to hand the ball to him and know you're going to be able to get five or 10 yards."

Todman excels in open space and should benefit from the new UConn offense. While coach Randy Edsall has said the running schemes won't change, there will be a greater emphasis on getting the balls to playmakers in the passing game, including running backs.

"I'm doing more pass pro and little swing routes to get open," Todman said. "I like it. I want to be a dual running back, not just run the ball also catch it out of the backfield. I've got good hands, athletic ability and the speed to make other people miss."

Todman's role may have been limited last year, but he learned invaluable lessons watching Brown every day. He said Brown's work ethic, understanding of the system and dedication to taking care of his body rubbed off.

"I think the biggest thing I learned from him was patience," he said. "Wait for the blocks, read the defense and then make plays."

The ability to absorb those lessons and the new playbook are why Todman is at the top of the depth chart ahead of Andre Dixon, who led the team in rushing two years ago before curiously fading into the background last season.

Todman figures to be in the forefront of the UConn offense this season. He might not replicate Donald Brown's numbers, but he could do enough to help the Huskies match last year's win total.