Fansided

College Football: 15 best running backs in 2016

By Brad Weiss

Nov 7, 2015; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; LSU Tigers running back Leonard Fournette (7) runs the ball during the fourth quarter against the Alabama Crimson Tide at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Alabama won 30-16. Mandatory Credit: Marvin Gentry-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 7, 2015; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; LSU Tigers running back Leonard Fournette (7) runs the ball during the fourth quarter against the Alabama Crimson Tide at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Alabama won 30-16. Mandatory Credit: Marvin Gentry-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
8 of 16
Next
Nov 21, 2015; Stillwater, OK, USA; Baylor Bears running back Shock Linwood (32) is tackled by Oklahoma State Cowboys linebacker Jordan Burton (20) and safety Tre Flowers (31) at Boone Pickens Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 21, 2015; Stillwater, OK, USA; Baylor Bears running back Shock Linwood (32) is tackled by Oklahoma State Cowboys linebacker Jordan Burton (20) and safety Tre Flowers (31) at Boone Pickens Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports /

They call him “Shock,” and it seems to be a fitting nickname for the star running back from Baylor University. In an off-season marred with controversy, the Baylor football program still has one bright spot, as Linwood is one of the best in the country.

As a 2013 Freshman All-American, Linwood rushed for 887 yards and eight touchdowns, making his mark on the football program. Since then, he has gotten better every season, and appears slated for a huge year in 2016.

As a sophomore in 2014, Linwood rushed for 1,252 yards and 16 touchdowns, setting the stage for his incredible 2015 campaign.

Last season, Linwood was named a Second-Team All-Big 12 selection, ranking seventh in the nation in yards per carry (6.78). In total, Linwood racked up 1,329 yards, including six games where he rushed for 100 yards or better.

The fifth-year senior is a versatile and smart runner who is extremely tough between the tackles. A Doak Walker and Maxwell Award Watch List member, Linwood is on pace to break a bunch of school records in 2016.

Within his sights are the school records for yards and touchdowns, so despite all the preseason distractions at Baylor, it could be a historic season for the football team thanks to the efforts of Linwood.

Next: 8. Wayne Gallman, Clemson University

Home/College Football