Spring Practice: Projecting The UCLA Running Back Depth Chart
Here is Part 2 of our look at the Bruin position groups going into Spring Practice as we now take a look at what we might see with the UCLA running back depth chart. We previously listed the potential QB depth chart, so now it is time to move on and look at the list of players in line to take up the task of the running game. Though there are several talented players on this list, it is basically a run down of players that will back-up returning leading rusher Paul Perkins.
1. Paul Perkins, R-So., 5’11”, 198 lbs.
This one is a no-brainer. The Pac-12 leading rusher in 2014 will be the #1 running back for UCLA. Perkins is a workhorse and will only get better next year with one season as the head guy under his belt. He will also be running behind one of the most experienced offensive lines UCLA has had several years which will be very advantageous for him, but in the spring look for them to be setting up a foundation for that time.
November 22, 2014; Pasadena, CA, USA; UCLA Bruins running back Nate Starks (23) runs the ball against the Southern California Trojans during the second half at the Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
2. Nate Starks, Fr., 5’11”, 205 lbs.
Starks was incredible in his first year as a Bruin. He may have only been fourth in rushing, but it was the little things that made him stand out… like repeatedly knocking defenders back that were try to tackle him. Because of that, he made our list of Breakout Players To Watch At Spring Practice. Eithter way, you will be seeing a lot of him in both Spring and Fall.
3. Steven Manfro, R-Jr., 5’9″, 190 lbs.
Oct 19, 2013; Stanford, CA, USA; UCLA Bruins running back Steven Manfro (33) runs the ball during the second quarter against the Stanford Cardinal at Stanford Stadium. Stanford won 24-10. Mandatory Credit: Bob Stanton-USA TODAY Sports
Manfro had a short lived season as he tore his ACL early in September. Though not an every down back for the Bruins, he is able to get a few extra yards whenever his name gets called. Though he had some trouble handling the ball at times, he was an excellent runner and is able to move very well in the open field. That is part of the reason he has been on kick returns, though it is unknown if he will resume those duties. If Manfro is fully recovered, get ready to here his name a lot during Spring Practice.
4. Adarius Pickett, Fr., 5’11”, 192 lbs.
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A converted defensive back that was moved over to RB for depth issues. DBs were over flowing and RBs needed some thickening up. But it is not as if he was converted for necessity, Pickett has played running back in high school so he is familiar with the position. He has great moves, great speed and can even catch the ball which will really help UCLA spread out their offense. With one season under his belt, it will interesting to see how he improves this Spring and what he will do to stand out.
5. Craig Lee, R-Fr., 5’11”, 185 lbs.
It is unknown exactly what is going on with Lee. He was a highly-touted recruit when he signed with the Bruins a few years ago and was expected to get into the rotation sooner than later. Unfortunately, he did not made a appearance in 2014.
6. Roosevelt Davis, R-Jr., 5’5″, 160 lbs.
Davis was used in 2013 when the Bruins had several RBs go down with injury. Unfortunately, in 2014, the RBs were able to stay healthy and he did not see time at at the RB position, though he played in all 13 games on special teams.
Stay with Go Joe Bruin as we continue our coverage of Bruin football going into Spring Practice. Our next episode: the receivers depth chart.