Keep an eye on these six running backs in the transfer portal.
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Some feel the running back position is devalued in today’s game. However, take a look at the four teams that will compete for the National Title. All four teams have solid running attacks. Teams who are successful are balanced on offense. A good running game takes the pressure off of the quarterback and keeps the defense honest.
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Two things still travel in football, defense and a running game. Let’s look at these six running backs who could impact the teams they play for next.
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- LJ Johnson, Texas A&M: The most enticing thing about LJ Johnson is his four years of eligibility. Johnson had just ten carries last season, so he is unproven. However, Johnson was a top-50 player coming out of high school with loads of potential.
- Ray Davis, Vanderbilt to Kentucky: The Wildcats needed another running back with Kavosiey Smoke — who is on this list — transferring out. Davis is the running back head coach Mark Stoops and his offensive staff love. He is a downhill runner who can get yards between the tackles or bounce it outside.
- Jaylan Knighton, Miami to SMU: Knighton going to Dallas reunites him with his former offensive coordinator, Rhett Lashlee, the current head coach. Knighton had his best season with Lashlee as coordinator, with over 800 yards from scrimmage and 11 touchdowns.
- Kavosiey Smoke, Kentucky: Smoke deciding to transfer is interesting because Chris Rodriguez is off to the NFL, which means there are more carries up for grabs. Perhaps the coaching staff likes the other running backs in the room more than Smoke, and he saw the writing on the wall.
- Lyn-J Dixon, Tennessee: Dixon never saw the field in Tennessee. He left the team only 18 days after joining the program. That was after he was supposed to join West Virginia. He has not played since Clemson. Dixon is a solid, veteran running back who should add depth to where ever he goes.
- Lorenzo Lingard, Florida: Lingard is interesting because he was such a highly-touted prospect coming out of high school. He’s struggled with injuries and has never fulfilled his potential. Maybe another new place will be good for his career.
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