UW Freshman Back Earns Increasing Time, Regains Coaches' Trust

After being suspended in the preseason, Tybo Rogers has become an important part of the position's rotation.

Running back Tybo Rogers took just two snaps for the Washington Huskies in their 36-33 win over the Oregon Ducks, but one of those two came on a fourth-and-goal situation on the 1-yard line in the middle of the fourth quarter. 

Against USC, the true freshman from Bakersfield, California, saw a big increase in snaps, taking 15. A handful came in the fourth quarter and Rogers received the second-most touches among Washington's running backs against the Trojans.

The opportunities Rogers was given against the Huskies' two ranked opponents this year show that Kalen DeBoer's coaching staff has developed newfound faith in the former 3-star recruit after suspending him for a team rules violation in the preseason.

He carried the ball 5 times for 21 yards and took a swing pass for 15 yards against the Trojans, displaying impressive speed and tackle-breaking prowess. As he continues to adjust to the college game, it appears Rogers could be in line to see even more touches moving forward when starter Dillon Johnson needs a break.

"The No. 1 piece is nobody's questioning Tybo's physical ability or what he can do with the ball in his hands," offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb said of Rogers' increased role. "He's special that way. His pass protection and reliability in knowing the system are two things he's continuing to improve on.

"He's out there making a difference on special teams, he's making plays on special teams and he's growing every week."

Rogers already has burned his redshirt by playing in seven games and should continue to carve out a role for himself in the final three weeks of the regular season. His ability to stretch defenses with his speed and as a pass-catcher make him a big-play threat whenever he's on the field.

Behind Johnson, Rogers has inserted himself into the conversation with Will Nixon and Sam Adams II as Washington's back-up running backs. 

Rogers still has a lot of room to grow, according to Grubb, but it appears the freshman is going to be an important piece of the Husky rushing attack for a long time.

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