2015 Clemson Football Depth Chart Projections – Running Back

Sep 19, 2013; Raleigh, NC, USA; North Carolina State Wolfpack linebacker Robert Caldwell (48) tackles Clemson Tigers running back Zac Brooks (24) at Carter Finley Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Liz Condo-USA TODAY Sports

No. 3 Zac Brooks

Exactly where Zac Brooks will fit in with this group of running backs is a bit of a mystery.

After entering training camp last year as one of Clemson’s top two running backs, Brooks sustained a foot injury that kept him out for the entire 2014 season.

Brooks would have been Clemson’s top returning rusher, after playing back-up to Roderick McDowell in 2013. That year, he rushed 48 times for 248 yards (5.1 ypc) and two touchdowns.

Gallman and Choice were supposed to be backups this year but that didn’t turn out to be the case. Both got on the field in Brooks’ absence and established themselves within the offense. Barring injury  or failure to keep working, neither is likely to fall out of the running back rotation now.

Brooks could still earn the starting job but the battle ahead of him now goes uphill. His average yards per carry in 2013 was better than what Gallman or Choice managed this season (4.8 and 4.4 yards, respectively) but he also accomplished that with a more functional offensive line.

It should be fascinating to see what happens when Brooks gets back in the mix, on level ground with the Tigers other running backs. He is good enough to be Clemson’s starter. The trouble is, so are at least two other guys.

Next: Running Back No. 4 & The Rest