Running Backs Will 'Define' Longhorns Season Says ESPN

With Bijan Robinson and Roschon Johnson off to the NFL, the Texas running backs will have to step up in a big way this season.

The Texas Longhorns are perhaps one of college football's most intriguing teams to watch this season. 

On paper, this is Steve Sarkisian's best roster since coming to Austin and as a result expectations are the highest they've been in his three years. To some, this season is Big 12 championship or bust.

With the talent they return, it isn't hard to see why that belief is held by some analysts. However, even with all that returning talent, there is one potentially glaring weak spot on this Longhorns roster - the running back room.

That's not to say the running back room is lacking for talent, but when you have to fill the shoes of a Doak Walker winner in Bijan Robinson and the talented Roschon Johnson, well, it won't be easy.

Robinson and Johnson departing for the draft will heavily affect Texas' offense, which is exactly what ESPN pointed out in listing the running back room as the non-quarterback position group that will define its season.

Texas' offense struggled with consistency at times last year, and that was with running back Bijan Robinson, who will go down as one of the all-time greats in Austin. Finding a replacement for Robinson, along with Roschon Johnson, another versatile back, will be a big task.

Returner Jonathon Brooks, who had a 70-yard run last year, finished the season with 30 carries, while Keilan Robinson and Jaydon Blue both return. ESPN 300 freshman Cedric Baxter Jr. (No. 30) will get a long look as well after rushing for 1,395 yards and 15 touchdowns in 10 games during his senior season.

The talent is undoubtedly there for the Longhorns in terms of their running backs, with Jonathon Brooks likely leading the way. 

Brooks made his name known to Longhorns fans with his performance against Kansas, which saw him rush for 108 yards and two touchdowns, one of which was the aforementioned 70-yard run, on just 11 carries. When healthy, he's likely the guy for Sarkisian.

Behind Brooks, though, is a loaded stable of backs for Texas to deploy. 

Keilan Robinson will continue to operate as a multi-faceted weapon, with his ability to make plays in the passing game opening up the Longhorns offense. As well, receiver turned running back Savion Red will also be used in the passing attack. 

The most talented running back in the room might just be freshman is CJ Baxter, who could eventually be the next great Texas running back. 

There is no denying that losing a duo as talented as Robinson and Johnson will hurt the offense. However, with the running backs Texas does have, it should have no trouble finding a groove as the season develops. 

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You can find Connor Zimmerlee on Twitter @Connorjz98

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