Over the years the ACC has been home to some of the best offensive skill players in the country. Going into the 2020 season somethings just remain the same. The ACC is loaded at the running back position. These running backs include game-changers, physical short yard runners, and pass-catching threats for possibly the best running back conference in the nation.
1) Travis Etienne, Clemson
Travis Etienne shocked many by returning to school. He was the ACC’s number one running back last season. He comes into 2020 holding the same title. He ran for 1,614 yards on nearly 8 yards per carry. He also had over 400 yards receiving. Etienne can block, run between the tackles, attacks the edge, and catch out of the backfield. Etienne broke 90 tackles last season providing explosive offensive plays for Clemson.
2) Javian Hawkins, Louisville
The University of Louisville is home to two of the most explosive players in the ACC. Wide Receiver Tutu Atwell and running back Javian Hawkins. Javian Hawkins had an outstanding freshman campaign rushing for over 1,500 yards for a nearly 6 yards per carry with 9 TDs. His ability is scary given that he has at least two more years of development. Hawkins may already be the best screen running back in the conference. He is excellent at setting up blocks after the catch. Hawkins had 100+ rushing yards games against the best teams UofL played, finishing on the second team All-ACC in 2019.
3) Michael Carter, North Carolina
Michael Carter’s game is consistent. He made plays for UNC particularly on 3rd down to keep drives alive. had a rock-solid 2019 Junior season. He had a 1,000-yard season and ran for 5.7 yards per carry. Out of the backfield he had 21 catches. He’s also a solid pass blocker. Along with Javonte Williams, they compose one of the best 1-2 RB combos in the ACC. While his upside may not be high he does all the dirty work to succeed.
4) Jordan Mason, Georgia Tech
Georgia Tech struggled behind a brand new offense. Georgia Tech’s transitioned for the triple-option offense to a more traditional offense. The first half of the season was poor but the offense picked up in the second half. The one constant of the Georgia Tech offense was Jordan Mason. While Mason was brought on campus in the triple option, Mason had 899 yards rushing for 5.2 yards per carry. He was one of the best running backs in breaking tackles. A year under the new offense should allow him to develop into a 1,000 yard back.
5) David Bailey, Boston College
David Bailey will finally get his time to shine. Bailey played behind AJ Dillon who was drafted in the 2nd round of the NFL draft. David Bailey still had 844 yards on the ground with a near 6 yards per carry . He was an honorable mention All-ACC season. Dillion’s carries will now be run by Bailey. He’s a physical back who runs downhill and loves to initiate contact. He needs to work on his pass-catching and run on the edge. Bailey looks to have a breakout 2020 season. He should have over 1,200 yards rushing this season.
