Will Oklahoma State RB Kendall Hunter Rebound in 2010?

by Kevin Mount - CollegeFootballGeek.com contributing writer

The expectations for Kendall “Spud” Hunter were huge entering the 2009 college football season, but unfortunately things did not turn out as planned. The numbers took a huge hit, as Hunter went from a top tier fantasy running back to a non-factor for the majority of the 2009 campaign. What happened and can he return to his exceptional form of 2008? We’ll discuss that right after the jump.

What’s the scoop?

The 2009 fantasy season was a disaster for Kendall Hunter and his owners for two reasons. An ankle injury that cost him six full games and bothered him in the others and the emergence of Keith Toston as an every down back. After being injured in week two against Houston, the sharp cutting back that Hunter has become was gone and was not seen for the rest of the year. In Hunter's absence, the Pokes turned to Keith Toston to carry the load and he did not disappoint with 1479 total yards and 12 scores.

What to expect in 2010?

When examining the prospects for Kendall Hunter this coming season, there are a couple of things that must be taken into account. The first would obviously be the injury that sidelined him for most of last season. This ankle injury was particularly hard on Hunter with his running style, but early reports point to Hunter being fully healthy and capable of running the way he did back in 2008. Add in the fact that Hunter is easily the most talented back on the Pokes roster after the graduation of Toston, and you have a recipe for success.

Probably the single biggest factor in determining Hunter's fantasy worth this season is the hiring of former Houston offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen. While it may seem like an awkward fit with such a pass happy coordinator in town, it actually could work out very nicely for Hunter and the Cowboys. The pass catching ability that Hunter has shown should be used heavily in the new Pokes' offense.

During his time at Houston, Holgorsen used his backs heavily in the passing game as evident by the 40 receptions for Bryce Beal in 2008 and the remarkable 70 catches for Charles Sims last season. The icing on the cake for Hunter is the recent comments that Holgorsen made regarding how he might use Hunter in the upcoming season. He stated that he might give Hunter the ball on every other snap. While that obviously won’t happen, it certainly points to Hunter being heavily involved in the offense in 2010.

Who’s back?

Jeremy Smith: Probably the No. 2 RB behind Hunter. Looked good in 2009 before going down to injury. If 100 percent healthy, he could contribute.

Travis Miller: A fast back that played sparingly last year. He could be used more in open space.

Dexter Pratt: This guy is intriguing. He is a big back who some have compared to Keith Toston because of his running style and hands. He could become the goal line guy and vulture some touchdowns.

Kye Staley: Coming off major knee surgery, his future is certainly in doubt. Probably a non-factor in 2010.

Joseph Randle: A three star athlete who could come in and play some RB. He could also red shirt with the number of backs the Pokes have for 2010.

If you fantasy draft was today (3/3/2010)….

The future looks very bright for Kendall Hunter, and he should be drafted accordingly. I would not hesitate to take Hunter as a top five RB,  especially in a just BCS league. If he happens to slide a bit because owners have concerns over last year, do yourself a favor and reap the rewards. I feel strongly that Kendall Hunter will return to his elite status in 2010.

Kevin Mount is a contributing writer for CollegeFootballGeek.com , your premier resource for college fantasy football information. Check us out.