Big Ten Football Preview: Running Backs

11. Rutgers: Paul James, Senior; Josh Hicks, Sophomore; Robert Martin, Sophomore

Aug 28, 2014; Seattle, WA, USA; Rutgers Scarlet Knights running back Paul James (34) celebrates the go ahead touchdown against the Washington State Cougars during the second half at Centurylink Field. The Knights beat Cougars 41-38. Mandatory Credit: James Snook-USA TODAY Sports

Rutgers is certainly a team that does not lack depth in the backfield and they happen to have plenty of talent as well. James is the main guy for the Scarlet Knights. He rushed for 363 yards and five touchdowns last season, but only because he was hampered by injuries. That’s where the two talented freshmen came into play. Hicks rushed for 440 yards and two touchdowns, while Martin ran for 434 yards and seven touchdowns. With a healthy three-headed monster, Rutgers could move up this list.

10. Iowa: Jordan Canzeri, Senior; LeShun Daniels, Junior

The Hawkeyes lost a couple running backs from last year, but they also bring back two more backs with playing experience. They are led by Jordan Canzeri, who rushed for 494 yards in 2014. LeShun Daniels also will receive a hearty workload. He only carried the ball 15 times last season for 49 yards and a touchdown. Together, these two backs provide a combination of speed and power to give Iowa a pretty decent tandem.

9. Michigan: Ty Isaac, Junior; Derrick Green, Junior; De’Veon Smith, Junior

The Michigan Wolverines have a lot of potential on offense, but it remains to be determined if they’ll be able to reach it. The big move in the Wolverines’ backfield is the addition of former USC running back Ty Isaac. Isaac fits right into the physical rushing attack that new coach Jim Harbaugh wants to implement. He is 6-foot-3 and 240 pounds and figures to be a huge part in the offense. Green and Smith, who were both key contributors last season, should also see plenty of action as well.