USC Football: Preseason Running Back Evaluation

With a long summer ahead until USC's opener against Virginia, I felt that I would take the time to delve deeply into the USC roster, with position-by-position breakdowns.

Running Backs:

Stafon Johnson, 5-11, 215, Jr.

After a challenging freshman year, Johnson emerged as one of the Trojans' most productive running backs in 2007. Johnson really came into his own in his second season at USC, rushing for 673 yards and five touchdowns on limited carries. Heading into next season, Stafon is expected to have the most carries. Throughout the spring, Stafon had limited carries in scrimmages and the Trojan Huddle; many consider this to be the case because the coaches know what he brings to the position.

Allen Bradford, 5-11, 225, Jr.

A highly touted recruit coming out of high school, Bradford has been somewhat of a bit-part player thus far. Many considered that he should move to defense, where he could have more of an impact. But after spring practice, there is no doubt he shall be playing running back in the coming year; he produced standout plays throughout spring and has certainly made a huge statement for playing time. It's only a matter of how much he shall receive with the bevy of players available.

C.J. Gable, 6-0, 200, Redshirt So.

Gable, who received a medical redshirt in 2007 after undergoing season-ending surgery on his injured groin, looked like he hadn't missed a beat during spring practice, running with confidence and authority. Again, another player many fans believe could be more effective on defense, he is an experienced runner and highly thought-of blocker. Questions remain if he can rise to the top of the rotation in front of many other talented backs.

Joe McKnight, 6-0, 200, So.

After a breakout performance in last year's Rose Bowl, huge expectations have been placed upon McKnight's shoulders. During spring practice, McKnight worked out as a wide receiver, expanding his role in terms of versatility on the offense,  though he was eventually ruled unavailable due to academic problems. Possibly the most popular running back on the team, McKnight will be focusing on academics too ensure his eligibility next season.

Marc Tyler, 6-0, 220, Redshirt Fr.

Tyler spent most of his freshman year recovering from a broken leg he suffered while in high school. Once healthy, he showed the speed and power that made him such a highly touted recruit. He struggled throughout spring practice with fumbling problems and will need to solve this if he wishes to gain any significant carries. He's capable of being a terrific all-around back in future seasons but is currently stuck behind several better more experienced backs.

Brodrick Green, 6-2, 235, Redshirt Fr.

A huge back that will punish you when you try to take him down, Green suffered a fall camp injury last season that forced him to redshirt last year. Prior to spring practice, there were rumors of a possible transfer, but these have been dispelled. He's an impressive back in the big back role in the offense who was injured at the Trojan Huddle. Should be healthy once fall comes around, although his health is always a concern with such a tall, bruising back.

Curtis McNeal, 5-8, 180, Incoming Fr.

His strengths are considered to be his agility, elusiveness and speed. It is generally thought that he will contribute as a returner, as he does not have the bulk to carry the ball yet. In the future, he should be able to contribute significantly. He's considering having shoulder surgery, as he has been unable to shake off a injury sustained last season.