Big Ten Football Preview: Running Backs

14. Minnesota: Rodrick Williams, Jr., Senior

Nov 22, 2014; Lincoln, NE, USA; Minnesota Golden Gophers running back Rodrick Williams Jr. (35) scores a touchdown against Nebraska Cornhuskers in the second half at Memorial Stadium. Minnesota won 28-24. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Thorson-USA TODAY Sports

As the lone senior running back, Williams is expected to receive a large portion of the workload. A season ago, he was used somewhat sparingly, only carrying the football 23 times for 114 yards and three touchdowns. The Golden Gophers love to pound the rock, so the big fella is sure to see plenty of action. Williams is also expected to share carries with redshirt freshmen Rodney Smith and Jeff Jones, a former Under Armour All-American.

13. Purdue: Keyante Green, Sophomore, Markell Jones, Freshman

The Boilermakers will be entering the upcoming season with fresh faces at the running back position, after losing their top two rushers from a season ago. Green is expected to be the starter. He ran the ball just 27 times last season for 199 yards. Purdue is hoping that he will be able to produce as the front man now, but if not, Jones is waiting for his opportunity. He was Mr. Football in the state of Indiana and is expected to see plenty of carries as well.

12. Maryland: Brandon Ross, Senior; Wes Brown, Junior

Once again, Ross and Brown will be the primary options in the backfield. Both players had solid seasons in 2014. Ross rushed for 419 yards and four touchdowns on 85 carries , while Brown carried the ball 103 times for 356 yards and six touchdowns. Neither player has exactly been the model of consistency that the Terps have been looking for, but they are still very serviceable.