Aug 33 min read

Preseason ACC: Remarkable Running Backs You Need to Know

As we barrel towards the college football season's start, the Atlantic Coast Conference is known as being a "League of Quarterbacks." But there are some outstanding running backs, too. They vary as much as the conference offenses between runners and ball carriers.

The role of running back is evolving a lot in the ACC. It's happening with a running back-by-committee level. Trey Benson, Jawhar Jordan and Will Shipley are now in the NFL. But there's a good deal of high-quality talent in the ACC. This also includes a number of workhorse running backs. Keep your eyes on these backs this season.

ACC First Team: Omarion Hampton, North Carolina

Omarion Hampton led the ACC last season with 1,500 rushing yards (fifth in the nation). He took full advantage of his first season as a starter, averaging just shy of 6 yards per carry. Hampton is an explosive back who uses his speed to run outside of the tackles. He shows no fear in running up the middle. Hampton also is a capable receiver out of the backfield, hauling in 29 receptions for 222 yards and a touchdown in 2023. With a new UNC quarterback in Max Johnson, it looks like Hampton is in for more of a workload. He'll be fun to watch while building off of a productive 2023 season.

Hampton also is an effective pass blocker. He has a great initial burst and is dangerous to tackle in the open field. At the recent ACC Kickoff, Hampton said he hopes to be compared to San Francisco 49ers all-world running back Christian McCaffery.

Second Team: Jamal Haynes, Georgia Tech

The Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets are moving in the right direction. Aside from moving away from the triple option, Georgia Tech has a never-quit mentality. Jamal Haynes has been one of the central cogs in the Yellow Jackets' turnaround for head coach Brent Key. Like Hampton, Haynes took advantage of his first season, where he eclipsed 1,000 yards on the ground.

As a converted wide receiver, Haynes lived up to the challenge. While more of a speed back, Haynes is willing to run between the tackles. He has the ability to find an opening and patience to wait for it. In Year 2 as the starter behind quarterback Haynes King, the Yellow Jackets are poised to make another step forward.

Haynes is a home run threat with his speed and shiftiness. Last season, Haynes averaged 13.4 yards per carry for Georgia Tech while scoring 8 total touchdowns.

Honorable Mention: Phil Mafah, Clemson

Phil Mafah and Shipley were key in Clemson's running game even as the team was down in 2023. While this duo was productive, Shipley's departure to the NFL creates an opportunity for Mafah to build off his team-leading season in 2023. He plays physically and doesn't shy away from running through defenders. Mafah may not be a speedy back, but he can move and be hard to tackle in the open field. The Tigers will again be a power in both the ACC and national stage. Mafah will be key to a successful offense.

With an increased workload, Mafah looks to showcase his improved pass-catching and blocking skills. He hopes to establish himself as a three-down running back. Similar in playing style to NFL running back Derrick Henry, Mafah is geared to wear down opposing defenses.

Best Newcomer to ACC: Jaydn Ott

Opinions may favor Damien Martinez withthe Miami Hurricanes. But Jaydn Ott from the University of California should have more of an impact on his team. Ott is a speedster who's explosive when carrying the ball. Ott has lateral agility and speed to excel in running north-south. But he also can get outside the tackles and gain yardage.

Ott had a breakout last season with 1,645 all-purpose yards and 15 total touchdowns. He's definitely a weapon on offense and special teams for head coach Justin Wilcox and the Golden Bears. They look to start ACC play with a bang.