Earlier this week Erik took at some of the upcoming quarterback battles that will garner the most of the attention this spring. Obviously the quarterback spot isn't the only position to see attrition through graduation. Several schools will be entrusting their running game to younger players this fall. In some cases there is a clear choice, in others it is a tad murky. Here is a look at the top five running backs with the biggest shoes to fill and the talent to fill them.
Top Five
David Wilson, Virginia Tech - The Hokies have prided themselves on a solid run game and Wilson must replace not just one, but two future NFL backs in Ryan Williams and Darren Evans. Look for Wilson to be rated very high in our upcoming projections.
Trent Richardson, Alabama - Richardson's skills are no mystery. Many believe he has more raw talent than Heisman Trophy winner Mark Ingram. With Ingram likely a first round pick in this April's NFL Draft, 2011 will be Richardson's time to be the Tide's lead back and many will be counting on him to deliver.
Ray Graham, Pitt - Like Richardson, Graham is no stranger to the starting role. Graham fiilled in for Dion Lewis, who struggled with injuries in 2010. Now the job will be all his and he'll be asked to carry the ball 200+ in 2011.
Joseph Randle, Oklahoma State - Randall is off to a good start to his young career rushing for 453 yards on 81 carries in 2010. He's also very proficient out of the backfield with 37 catches for 427 yards last season. Look for those touches to double in 2011.
Montee Ball & James White, Wisconsin - There will be much debate as which Badger back has the most upside. Bottomline, as long as they stay healthy, both will command significant carries and should rush for over 1000-yards.
A few others that are less clear
Brennan Clay & Roy Finch, Oklahoma - You could probably throw Jermie Calhoun in the mix but reading the tea leaves, Clay and Finch have the best shot at become DeMarco Murray's replacement. Clay looked to be on his way to establishing himself as the heir apparent before injuries derailed his season. Oh, and don't forget about 5-star recruit Brandon Williams.
Mike Ball & Lampford Mark, Nevada - Despite coach Chris Ault's desire to have one workhorse back, it may take both Ball and Mark to replace Vai Taua. Ball has the infamous five touchdown game against UNLV in 2009 that will stick out in most people's mind.
Mike Ford, Spencer Ware & Jakhari Gore, LSU - Ford blew up spring practice in 2010, but played second fiddle to Stephan Ridle. Coach Les Miles praised Ware during a press conference last week. And in the "grass is always greener on the other side" corner is Jakhori Gore, a redshirt freshman that LSU fans are clamoring to see next fall. Though, it looks like he could be moved to receiver.
Tavon Austin, West Virginia - Look for him to move back to tailback. A solid sleeper candidate.
Richard Watson, Georgia Tech - Front runner for the B-back position vacated by Anthony Allen.
Jason Ford, Illinois - Can he have a break out like his predecessor Mikel LeShoure?
Silas Redd & Stephfon Green, Penn State - Youth vs. pure speed, which one wins out?
D.J. Shoemate, UConn - Shoemate is the last man standing for the Huskies, he'll need to overcome last season's fumbling issues if he hopes to win the job.
Bryce Brown, Kansas State - Yes folks, that Bryce Brown.
Victor Anderson, Louisville - With Bilal Powell out of the picture, does Anderson have another 1000-yard season in him?
Isi Sofele & Co., Cal - Will a lead back emerge at Cal?
Jasmin Hopkins, Cameron Bell & Jamal Womble, Northern Illinois - The best bet to replace Chad Spann may not be another running back, but quarterback Chandler Harnish.