ABILENE – In the first two years of the
Adam Dorrel era at ACU, rushing plays made up 41% of the offensive scheme, but the two most recent seasons have seen that number jump up to 48%. The 2019 and 2020 seasons have seen a combined 21 different Wildcats record a rushing attempt, making running back depth a consistent necessity.
"This is as deep of a running back unit as we have had. Each of these guys can fit the offense well and do what we need them to, and they all have their own individual specialties," running backs coach
Bryce Baccarini said. "We are really excited about what this group has in store for the season."
KEY RETURNERS
Jermiah Dobbins, redshirt freshman | Lubbock Texas
Dobbins became ACU's fourth-ever running back to earn All-Southland status last fall, rushing for 227 yards and five scores in just six games. The former Estacado High School standout averaged 5.4 yards per carry, with his season-long run of 27 yards coming against SFA.
"Jermiah was thrown into the fire as a true freshman last year, but he's barely scratched the surface. He's an effortless runner who is hard to catch and hard to bring down. Jermiah is a special talent whose best football is definitely ahead of him." –
Bryce Baccarini
Robert McKnight, redshirt senior | Bossier City, La.
McKnight was used all over the field for the Wildcats in 2020, recording five rushes on the offensive side, a pair of tackles on the defensive side and a kick return on special teams.
"Robert has bounced around positions, but we are glad to have him back in the running back room for this year. He has as tough as they come, and he is a huge senior leader for us." –
Bryce Baccarini
Tyrese White, senior | Hamshire, Texas
White saw action in all six games last year and shared carries with Dobbins for the bulk of the season. The elder statesman saw his best game of the season come against SFA, when he hit paydirt in the first and fourth quarters.
"Tyrese has been here the longest of anybody in this group, and I'm really excited for this year for him. He is a big-time playmaker with a high football IQ. He has great change of direction and a lot big play ability, but he can also lower his shoulder and help us in short yardage scenarios, as well." –
Bryce Baccarini
KEY NEWCOMERS
Anthony Smith, redshirt sophomore | Fort Worth, Texas
- Signing Day video
- Texas State transfer
- played in 11 games and rushed for 352 yards at Texas State
- former All-District selection
"Anthony's probably the most versatile back we have, he's great with the ball in his hands and he can catch the ball well. He has a physically imposing frame, and we're really excited about the depth and big-play ability he brings." –
Bryce Baccarini
Quae Walton, freshman | Waco, Texas
- Signing Day video
- all-time leading rusher at La Vega High School
- will also contribute on special teams
"Quae has a lot of skill, and his vision is as good as it gets. He has incredible change of direction, and he can make decisions without losing speed at all." –
Bryce Baccarini
More ACU Football Insight
Linebackers – August 18
Defensive Backs – August 19
Defensive Line – August 20
Special Teams – August 21
OC Josh Lamberson after Scrimmage #2
DC Clint Brown after Scrimmage #2
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