By Jordan Burton (For OzarksSportsZone.com)
There are many talented running backs across our coverage area that features more than 60 teams. Below are some of the top running backs to watch this season. This list is in alphabetical order.
NOTE: Some worthy players may appear on one of our other SIX football watch lists. In an effort to highlight as many players as possible, A PLAYER CAN ONLY APPEAR ON ONE LIST.
The football watch lists we will be releasing are: Quarterbacks, Running Backs, Receivers, Linemen, Linebackers, Defensive Backs and Breakout Players.
RUNNINGS BACKS TO WATCH
Rylin Dickson & Hunter Adams, Ava
Two years ago, Adams was the best freshman in the Ozarks, rushing for 1,174 yards and 25 touchdowns. He had 13 carries for 88 yards and two scores before an injury ended his season. In came Rylin Dickson, who rushed for 814 yards and 13 touchdowns on just 60 carries. These two will give defenses fits all fall.
Braden Dodson, Mt. Vernon Junior
It’s no secret that his sophomore campaign was dominant. The All-Big 8 selection rushed for 1,245 yards and 23 touchdowns and was equally good defensively with 78 tackles and 15 tackles for loss. But, the way he looked at team events this summer makes it apparent he’s got a chance for a 2,000-yard, 100-tackle type of season.
Tyler Fleetwood & Owen Casper, Cabool Seniors
Cabool will be a tough out in Class 1 and these two are a major reason why; they embody who Tyler Spittler wants to be as a program. They were the top two rushers last year with Fleetwood (1,628 yards, 16 TDs) leading the way and Casper (797 yards, 12 TDs) giving Cabool a two-headed monster. Defensively, they combined for more than 200 tackles, 13 of which were tackles for a loss by Casper. Cabool has some talent up front returning as well, which will lead to a big year for these two Bulldogs.
Jax Glendenning, Lebanon Junior
Lebanon’s list of great running backs under Will Christian is crazy long and Glendenning is on pace to go down as the G.O.A.T. after rushing for 1,088 yards and nine touchdowns on just 85 carries as a sophomore. He’s the first sophomore to ever rush for a 1,000 yards under Christian. He was also an All-OC linebacker. He’s one of the most productive two-way players in the Ozarks.
Dayvion Harris, Marshfield Senior
Harris has home run speed, which makes him perfect for Cody Bull’s spread system. Out of the gun or pistol, Harris is a cut and go back, which led to him rushing for 1,076 yards and 13 touchdowns in the rugged Big 8. Harris should see more touches this fall, which will lead to an increase in numbers.
Omari Jackson & Breckin Galardo, Webb City Seniors
These two form the most dynamic running back tandem in the area. Jackson started last year by going for 155 against a really good Nixa defense before getting hurt in Week 2 and being limited. So, Galardo followed him up by running wild against Republic (204), Joplin (162) and Ozark (173). When Jackson came back healthy the last three weeks, they each averaged well over 100 yards per game. Both could be 1,000-yard guys this fall.
Jackson Marrs, Seneca Senior
I remember seeing a junior high clips of Marrs where he was running through, around and away from defenders and four years later, it’s only gotten worse. As a junior, he rushed for 1,688 yards and 24 touchdowns. He’s also one of the best linebackers in the Ozarks and one of the most physical skill position guys you’ll see.
Quin Renfro, Joplin Senior
This year’s title of “Most Complete Back” goes to Renfro. As a freshman, we saw his potential. As a junior, he fully realized it, rushing for 1,514 yards and 24 touchdowns. He can run between the tackles, he can run wide and he’s a threat out of the backfield. He will take his talents to South Dakota State next year, following the path of former Joplin standout Isaiah Davis.
OTHERS TO WATCH
Braxton Gross, Forsyth Senior
Cooper Haun, Lamar Junior
Easton Hubbard, Stockton Junior
Michael Kelsey, Waynesville Junior
Kanon Krol, Republic Senior
Landon Murry, El Dorado Springs Senior
Jax Prater, Aurora Senior
Grady Strathman, Cole Camp Senior
