Texas the Big 12's only elite rushing attack?
, but only one Big 12 team cracked the list.
It's those boys down in Austin, the Texas Longhorns.
Texas certainly has the most raw talent in running backs Malcolm Brown and Johnathan Gray, two of the most highly sought backs in the past two recruiting classes. The Longhorns also return four offensive linemen, which, to me, is a much bigger reason for encouragement.
Joyner loves the opportunity the Texas O-line had to jell this offseason, and Brown's vision makes him a player with a chance to ascend among the elite.
He's right, but what about the other rushing attacks in the Big 12?
Kansas State? The Wildcats had two rushers with more yards than anyone on Texas' roster. Quarterback Collin Klein and running back John Hubert are both back, even though K-State must replace three offensive linemen. No love for the SnyderCats?
What about Oklahoma State, too? Joseph Randle and Jeremy Smith play in an offense built to set up the run by passing, but they're still extremely productive. Would anyone be surprised if the duo outrushed the Longhorns' trio of Brown, Gray and sophomore Joe Bergeron? I wouldn't.
TCU lost Ed Wesley this offseason, but Waymon James and Matthew Tucker are both very capable and both topped 700 yards last season.
Texas has a great running attack, and may prove itself as the Big 12's best by the end of the season. But it was surprising to see teams like K-State, Oklahoma State and TCU get no love on Joyner's list.
David Ubben | email
College Football- ESPN.com Big 12 blogger
- Joined ESPN.com in 2010
- Wrote for The Oklahoman
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