Miami’s Running Backs Must Step Up With A Key Player Injured
The Miami running back group faces a new dynamic this spring due to a significant injury sidelining their usual starter. Matt Merritt, transitioning from USF to Miami, steps into the leadership role vacated by Tim Harris, Jr., boasting unique experience coaching prominent figures like Ezekiel Elliott and working with Urban Meyer at various coaching stops.
However, the team encounters a challenge with Mark Fletcher, Jr. nursing a Lisfranc joint injury, likely keeping him out for a considerable duration, including the start of the 2024 season. This setback is particularly tough given Fletcher’s significant contributions towards the end of the 2023 season.
In light of this, the team must explore its running back depth to fill the void until Fletcher’s return. Henry Parrish, Jr., a seasoned fifth-year senior, emerges as a potential frontrunner due to his past performance, amassing 625 yards and 6 touchdowns in the previous season. However, concerns linger about his ability to maintain consistent performance throughout a full season, as evidenced by fluctuations in his Pro Football Focus grades, possibly due to injury issues.
The team’s success may hinge on Parrish’s durability and the ability of other players like Ajay Allen, TreVonte’ Citizen, and Chris Johnson, Jr. to step up and compete for starting roles. Allen’s speed and agility are promising, but his improvement in pass blocking could be the key to solidifying the running back rotation alongside Parrish.
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