CJ Baxter is ready to run the Texas backfield, alongside Quinn Ewers who will be holding the reigns, as he steps into the role of the Longhorns’ starting running back.
While Baxter’s projected dominance is a continuation of the trend for Texas’ running back room, the overall dominance of the SEC is also continuing.
The Longhorns have to face some of the best teams in college football which includes some of the best running backs in the country.
So, which three running backs are going to be the biggest issues for Texas’ defensive line and winning record?
Trevor Etienne is a stout, strong running machine.
For the Florida Gators last year, Etienne had 753 yards and 8 touchdowns on the ground. He also earned 172 yards and an additional TD through the air.
As Etienne acclimates to Kirby Smart's Georgia program, he is expected to be the No. 1 running back for the Bulldogs and is projected to have an even more impressive season ahead of him.
Last season, Montrell Johnson Jr. split snaps with former Florida running back Trevor Etienne.
Despite having to share the ball, Johnson was able to amass 817 yards and 5 touchdowns over 152 carries. Johnson also had 30 receptions for an additional 236 yards and a touchdown.
As Johnson heads into his senior season, he is expected to be the go-to guy for the Gators, especially with Etienne transferring to Kirby Smart's program at Georgia.
As a freshman, Gavin Sawchuk got the nod from head coach Brent Venables to be the Sooners' starting running back.
Throughout the season, Sawchuk had 120 carries 744 yards and 9 touchdowns. While he only averaged 6.2 yards per rush attempt, his ability to stay on the field and never grow tired is invaluable.
Unfortunately for Horns fans, Sawchuk and the Oklahoma Sooners will be a problem for a few years to come.