Miami football RB wide open competition entering training camp

Sep 10, 2022; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 10, 2022; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports /
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With returning starter Henry Parrish the only running back on the Miami football roster who had significant snaps in 2022, competition at the position should be wide open when training camp begins on Tuesday. Parrish led Miami with 130 carries, 616 rushing yards and 61.6 rushing yards per game during the 2022 season.

Don Chaney Jr. who had two carries for eight yards in 2022 is the only other player among the top five projected RBs entering training camp that had a carry for Miami in 2022. Miami also returns Tre’Vonte Citizen who missed the entire 2022 season with a knee injury. Two true freshmen will also compete for snaps at RB.

Mark Fletcher was the seventh-ranked RB in the 2023 class according to the 247 Sports composite rankings. Fletcher who is known more for his ability running inside the tackles, showcased his talent as a receiver with an 81-yard touchdown catch in the All-American Bowl in San Antonio in January.

Chaney has dealt with injuries that cost him most of the last two seasons. As a true freshman in 2022, Chaney showed promise with 68 carries for 322 yards and three touchdowns and 11 receptions for 143 yards. Chaney had four carries for 17 in the first half of the spring game and a 38-yard TD run in the second half.

David Wilson of the Miami Herald quoted Citizen saying “I’m on a good track to be able to play this season” during the Hurricanes’ media day on Monday. Expect Chaney and Citizen to be brought along slowly recovering from their injuries. Nebraska transfer Ajay Allen could start the season as Parrish’s primary challenger.

Allen had 33 carries for 190 yards and two touchdowns and one reception for nine yards in the first four games for Nebraska in 2022 before suffering his own season-ending injury. Allen is reportedly fully recovered from a broken collarbone. The Miami football team also has speedy true freshman Chris Johnson.

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Johnson won Florida state titles in track in high school. Wilson also reported on Monday that Johnson will run indoor track for Miami, but not in the outdoor season because of the conflict with spring football. Miami has a talented group at RB entering the 2023 season. Staying healthy after 2022 will be critical in 2023.