Michigan Spring Game Observations: Running Backs

The biggest issue for Michigan's offense is going to be replacing Brandon Minor, however he was never really healthy so it shouldn't be too difficult. Now the candidates.

Mike Shaw—Shaw had a good spring and made a couple of nice runs this spring game, but is going to have to be more consistent. Shaw has a chance to earn a starting role, but he has to continue to be more physical and use his speed more effectively.

Look for Shaw to get a lot of looks early in the fall, and for him to be able to exploit weaker defenses. The question is whether or not he'll be able to make plays against the better defenses. This season is going to be big for Mike Shaw as it could be his last chance to become a major contributor.

Mike Cox—Mike Cox is a guy that has been really impressive this spring. Apparently he had some problems holding on to the ball and being consistent, but this spring for him sounds and looks familiar to another guy that just signed with the Chicago Bears.

Mike Cox only got six carries in the spring game, but had 38 yards and a 22 yard touchdown that was very reminiscent of Brandon Minor in terms of the style and athletic ability.

Cox basically has it all as a runner and is very physical. The real question is whether or not he can bring his talent game in and game out for an entire season. I'm not sure he can be a truly elite running back, but I do think he could become the next Brandon Minor and that is all Michigan needs.

Fitzgerald Toussaint—The guy took some first team carries this spring, and he is more physical than I expected. I'm not sure if he is as fast or elusive as most fans were expecting him to be, but then again he was lined up next to Denard Robinson most of the scrimmage.

He looks a bit hesitant and perhaps once he becomes more aggressive, he'll show his speed off better. It's hard to tell whether he is going to become a star or if he is going to get buried in the depth chart.

Stephen Hopkins—I came away very impressed with Hopkins and his physical running style, and definitely think he will play right away. The only question of how much which will depend on two things. 1) Mike Cox's consistency, and  2) Stephen Hopkins consistency.

If Hopkins can prove he is an every down back, then he will have the opportunity to start in 2010!

Conclusion—Expect a RB by committee situation. The downside is usually that means there are no standouts and each guys is used predictably. The upside is sometimes one or two guys step up and show some versatility.

Mike Shaw, Mike Cox, and Vincent Smith will all get reps early with Toussaint and Hopkins behind. My guess is that Mike Cox and Vincent Smith will form the duo that Minor and Smith could've been last season. However, I could also see Hopkins compete with Mike Cox if he doesn't play on the Brandon Minor type level.

I personally think that our running back talent is slightly inferior to what it was last spring, but the production will probably be better in the fall. Why? A better offensive line and better quarterback play will help these young guys break out to have a solid fall.

Stay tuned for the wide receiver outlook!!!