2013 Boston College Football Unit Preview: Backs

Melina Vastola-USA TODAY Sports

Boston College’s running game last season was about as bad as we can remember. The Eagles were 119th out of 124 FBS teams in 2012 with just over 90 total rushing yards per game; take out a few individually decent games and you’d be left with, frankly, a complete embarrassment.

Luckily, BC has a new face coaching the unit and some hungry players looking to fix last season’s shortcomings, but the problem with which they will be met is lack of depth. In fact, the Eagles only have five running backs listed on the entire roster. A key performer, Rolandan Finch, has left the program while Tahj Kimble is just returning from an injury. The Eagles need some solutions here, and they need them fast.

(Editor’s note: Yes, the offensive line does play a big part in the success of any running game, and you’ll see that unit preview tomorrow at 11:30am ET.)

2013 BC Football Unit Preview: Running Back

The Starter

Andre Williams, senior

Williams, on the Doak Walker Award Preseason Watch List, will undoubtedly be the Eagles’ featured back in 2013 with Rolandan Finch gone for good. He is capable of putting up some huge games, and we know that because we’ve seen it with our own eyes. Williams has talent, but he has also been bitten by the injury bug. If he stays healthy all year, he’ll be leaned upon heavily. If he doesn’t, BC is in big trouble with their depth here.

The Backup

Dave Dudeck, sophomore

Dudeck played as a true freshman last year and eventually worked his way up to second on the two-deep, which is where he sits now. His freshman season wasn’t that productive as he averaged only 2.7 yards per carry, though one can keep in mind that few offensive players were truly productive and the run game as a whole was abysmal. Give him a pass for now and we’ll see what he can do this year. If he can’t perform, there are some talented freshmen behind him who will be itching for their shot.

Off The Two-Deep

Myles Willis, freshman

Willis is a talented athlete (who was recruited as an athlete, actually) who can perform several different offensive functions. Now, however, he is listed as a running back. He was one of the best 2013 recruits and may end up being a star on this team, but to count on his as a true freshman would be asking a lot. In fact, he may redshirt, but I’m willing to bet he won’t. BC is so thin at this position that they may have no choice.

Joshua S. Kelly-USA TODAY Sports

Tahj Kimble, junior

Kimble has had injuries with which to deal during his time at BC, and they cost him 75% of the season last year. Reports are that he’s back and ready to make an impact, but how much of one will he make after what he just endured? Tough to say, but we know he’s going to get touches. Kimble is a wild card: if he does well, then we know BC has at least two reliable backs in himself and Williams, but if he doesn’t, that whole depth thing looks a lot worse. What might be borderline unfair after his injury is that he’s a junior, making him the second-most veteran running back on the team. Things are going to be expected from him as a result and BC desperately needs his help.

Tyler Rouse, freshman

Rouse was the Player of the Year in New York as a senior and he picked up his Boston College offer just before Signing Day. He’s a nice story, but if either he or Willis will redshirt, it’s more likely to be Rouse. For what it’s worth, there’s a reasonable chance that neither will redshirt.

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