Class of ’23 Backs Ready to Run Wild
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For most people that have followed the Class of 2023 closely; they more than likely know about backs like Dylan Edwards Dylan Edwards 5'9" | 165 lbs | RB Derby | 2023 State KS from Derby and John Randle II…
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Continue ReadingFor most people that have followed the Class of 2023 closely; they more than likely know about backs like Dylan Edwards Dylan Edwards 5'9" | 165 lbs | RB Derby | 2023 State KS from Derby and John Randle II John Randle II 6'0" | 180 lbs | RB Wichita Heights | 2023 State KS out of Wichita Heights. But there are plenty of other talented tailbacks in this group. Look for these six backs to run wild during their junior year.
Jordan Johnson Jordan Johnson 5'11" | 180 lbs | RB Fort Scott | 2023 KS – Fort Scott, 5’11”, 180
Johnson was a key piece to the Tigers’ run heavy offense in 2020. He earned 1st Team All-SEK honors and helped lead Fort Scott to a 7-1 record after going 1-8 the previous year. One of the best aspects about his game is his balance. He can stay up to get those extra yards after being hit. Johnson is a strong runner that explodes through the line, and he’s also a willing blocker in their split-back set. His role should increase this season.
Eric Butler Eric Butler 6'2" | 220 lbs | ATH Olathe Northwest | 2023 State KS – Olathe South, 6’1”, 205
Butler already has next level size as a sophomore. The Olathe South product managed to pick up an Honorable Mention nod in a competitive Sunflower League filled with talented tailbacks. He displays a combination of good vision and footwork, and he can break multiple tackles and make defenders miss. Butler has the skill set to be a 1st Team All-League running back during his junior campaign.
Jace Thomas Jace Thomas 6'1" | 185 lbs | RB Scott City | 2023 State KS – Scott City, 6’0”, 180
Thomas should be a premier back in the 3A Classification level this fall. He was selected to the GWAC 1st Team Offense and he also earned a 3A All-State Honorable Mention nod after rushing for 800 yards and racking up 285 yards receiving. Thomas does nothing but make plays when the ball is in his hands. He has the strength to run in between the tackles, but it’s when he gets into the open field where he becomes dangerous. He has a burst once he gets past the second level of the defense, and he is good at finding cut back lanes.
Nash Money Nash Money 5'9" | 170 lbs | RB Wellsville | 2023 State KS – Wellsville, 5’9”, 170
Money is the smallest back out this group, but he runs just as hard as the other five players listed. In 2020 he rushed for 778 yards, while averaging a solid 4.9 yards per carry and he scored nine touchdowns. He’s a back that shows good patience, footwork, and vision. Money isn’t easy to bring down either. He can break tackles, and he can make defenders look silly with his moves. I wouldn’t be surprised if he earns 2A All-State honors this season.
Jaytin Gumm Jaytin Gumm 6'0" | 175 lbs | RB McPherson | 2023 State KS – McPherson, 5’11”, 185
Gumm came on to the scene out of nowhere during his sophomore year. He found his way into the starting lineup and didn’t hesitate. In his first year starting varsity, Gumm rushed for over 1,300 yards, averaging 7.4 yards per carry, and scored 14 total touchdowns. Gumm is a back that is decisive and will make one cut and explode up-field. He’ll run through arm tackles and he has the speed to outrun defensive backs. I’d expect another big year from Gumm.
Grant Stubblefield Grant Stubblefield 6'1" | 185 lbs | RB Blue Valley Northwest | 2023 State KS – Blue Valley Northwest, 6’1”, 185
Like most teams last year, the Huskies unfortunately had a shortened season due to Covid-19. But Stubblefield made the most of his opportunity as the lead back during his sophomore campaign. He rushed for over 600 yards and scored eight total touchdowns in 2020. Stubblefield is an explosive back that will run through defenders. He makes quick cuts, and he shows the potential of being a solid receiving option out of the backfield. With a full season Stubblefield will be primed for a breakout year.