Who will be Iowa State’s starting Running Back when the Cyclones take the field against Kent State on August 30th? My best guess is Alexander Robinson, but Jason Scales and JJ Bass should see plenty of action as well.
#23 Alexander Robinson (5-10, 181) – Redshirt Freshman
Robinson was a high school phenom in Minneapolis where he rushed for 2340 yards and 31 TD as a senior. Coach McCarney compared his skill set and demeanor to Ellis Hobbs. I attended Mac’s farewell GDM Cyclone Club luncheon last year and he said “keep an eye on Alexander Robinson next year, he is going to be special”.
I had the opportunity to watch several practices last year and I came away very impressed with Robinson. The thing I liked most was his ability to get to the outside and turn the corner. After many years of running only between the tackles it will be refreshing to see a Cyclone RB get outside. I give Robinson the edge to be the starter because I think he adds another dimension to coach McFarland’s offense.
2007 Prediction: 145 carries, 798 yards, 6 TD
#6 Jason Scales (5-9, 212) – Junior
Jason Scales finally saw action last year after an injury plagued first two seasons. The former West Des Moines Valley stand out looked good at times before going down to injury again late in the year. His best game came against Kansas State rushing for 67 yards and a touchdown. Scales style of running is different then Robinson or Bass and he should work well as a compliment to the two quicker backs. I would expect to see Scales in short yardage and goal line situations and he should also be effective late in games to move the chains and run the clock.
2007 Prediction 100 carries, 412 yards, 6 TD
#3 JJ Bass (6-1, 206) – Junior
JJ Bass has been the most talked about Running Back this off season. He comes to Iowa State from El Camino CC where he rushed for 1200 yards and 13 TD. Bass was also effective as a receiver catching 20 balls for 2 more touchdowns. SuperPrep rated him as the #2 JUCO back in the 2007 class. I have only seen JJ on video, but he hits the hole hard and shows good hands out of the backfield. I suspect he will struggle a little with pass protection early, but should see increased playing time as the season goes on.
2007 Prediction: 95 carries, 475 yards, 4 TD
#15 Cameron Bell (6-1, 233) – Freshman
All reports indicate that the freshman has been very impressive early in camp. Bell is a big, bruising RB that could provide the Cyclones with a different look. My bet is that Cameron Bell will redshirt in 2007, but that could all change with an injury to one of the top three guys. If Scales goes down during the season don’t be surprised if Bell fills the short yardage role for the Clones.
2007 Prediction: Redshirt
#22 Jason Harris (5-11, 208) – Junior
Harris is a great athlete that is trying to find his best position on the field. He is a running back, turned defensive back, turned running back. Unfortunately, I think his best position may be safety and I wouldn’t be surprised to see him there again soon. His name isn’t popping up much on preseason reports. Is he buried on the depth chart? Is he dinged up? Has he moved back to safety? I am hoping the staff can find a way to utilize the speedy Harris this fall.
2007 Prediction: Switch to Safety
#39 Rickey Thompson (5-9, 200) – Junior
