For the first time under head coach Dana Holgorsen, the WVU football team has capable running backs. As of Saturday, WVU has seven running backs listed on their roster. One of those is considered a “fullback” and four of the remaining six have the potential to be the day one starter. It’s needless to say that this year’s running back class is one of the deepest on the team, maybe even in the NCAA. With that much depth, an offensive guru like Holgorsen has many options with this year’s offense.
Running backs Andrew Buie, Dustin Garrison, Charles Sims and Dreamius Smith are all likely to see game action in 2013. In what capacity that will be, no one knows yet. It’s been rumored that Sims may line up in the slot, with Buie and Smith lining up together in the backfield.
Of the backs, only one is bigger than Smith and that’s fullback Nate Majnaric. Smith is 5-11, 217 pounds. Sims is just below him at 6-0, 213 pounds. In this offense, Smith is likely to act as the power back.
“I knew when I first got here I wanted to be able to use my big size and use my speed at the same time,” Smith said.
Smith has been asked if he’s been asked to line up in the slot yet, and Smith said he hasn’t, though he has played there some at his junior college. Smith will be the smash to Buie’s dash if they line up together.
This concept shouldn’t be new to WVU fans. With two running backs in the backfield that can produce, it keeps defenses guessing. When Pat White lined up in the backfield with Steve Slaton and Owen Schmitt, defenses had no clue who was getting the ball. That could be what Holgorsen has in mind in 2013.
Buie, though, has been working on his strength and it showed in 2012. As a freshman, Buie was soft and was easily tackled. In 2012, Buie took defenders on and oftentimes won. Going forward, Buie will be looking to play whatever role is bestowed upon him.
“I am just looking forward to being able to play, and whatever my role is, I am just going to do it to the best of my ability,” Buie said.
Buie also reiterated a statement that Holgorsen proposed during Thurday’s day one presser, as he embraces the competition at running back.
“There is definitely a lot of competition in the room, which is good. Who doesn’t want to play against good competition that will push you to be better?” Buie stated.
If you remember correctly, Tavon Austin and Stedman Bailey prided themselves on pushing one another at the wide receiver position last season. That turned out pretty well, yeah?
As for the newcomer, the backs are welcoming him in to their family.
“He (Sims) is a great running back and has a good burst. When you get the ball in his hands you can see that he can actually do stuff with it,” Smith said of his new teammate.
Smith, like Buie, is embracing the competition and is positive about the running back competition going into the season.
“Regardless if he plays or I play, we are going to have a good season.”
