TicketsFootball Outlook: The Running Game
Contact: Tom Hathaway
8/13/2004
Richard Hall |
The Bearcats are counting on increased production from their running attack in 2004. One reason is the return of Richard Hall, the team's leading rusher from last season who brings an array of skills and maturity to the running back position.
Hall, a senior who excels in all aspects of the game, gained 777 yards in 10 games last year, some in which he was limited by injuries. Carl Jones, a junior and team's second-leading rusher, and sophomores Derrick Eddington and Terry Arnold all saw considerable action in 2003 and each brings his own particular skills to the table. Jones is a scat-back type of runner while Eddington is a slasher who can gain ground between the tackles. Arnold has the combination of power and speed.
Newcomers who could see action are Delbert Ferguson, a freshman who enrolled at UC for spring practice though he was unable to take part in contact drills while recovering from an injury; Bradley Glatthaar, who rushed for nearly 5,000 yards while leading his high school to back-to-back state titles; Butler Benton, who gained over 3,000 yards in his prep career; and Jon Carpenter, who ran for over 1,900 yards and 32 TDs as a senior.
The change from a spread offense to a multiple attack could make the fullback more integral to the unit. However, the Bearcats do not have any player returning with any game experience at the position. It is likely that a newcomer, perhaps rookie freshmen Brad Bury or Jon Carpenter, will make an impact here.
Running Backs
2003 Starter: Richard Hall (5-11, 209 Sr.)
Returning Vets: Carl Jones (5-9, 195 Jr.), Terry Arnold (5-10, 201 So.), Derrick Eddington (5-7, 188 So.)
Newcomers: Butler Benton (6-1, 210 Fr.), Jon Carpenter (5-11, 215 Fr.), Delbert Ferguson (6-1, 223 Fr.), Bradley Glatthaar (5-11, 215 Fr.), Greg Moore (6-2, 210 So.)
Fullback
2003 Starter: Booker Vann (graduated)
Returning Vet: Evan Sparks (6-0, 205 So.)
Newcomer: Brad Bury (6-1, 245 Fr.)