Assessing the Top Running Back Units Ahead of the 2026 College Football Season

With just weeks left until the 2026 college football season kicks off, it's time to evaluate the top running back units that will shape the game. The physical demands of the position emphasize the need for depth and versatility in backfields, making this ranking critically important for understanding team dynamics.

1. Texas Tech

Texas Tech claims the top spot thanks to exceptional depth rather than standout individual performances. Cameron Dickey will return after leading the Big 12 with 14 rushing touchdowns last season. Supplementing his skill set is J’Koby Williams, who stood out among Power Four running backs with 388 receiving yards. Complicating matters for their opponents is the return of Quinten Joyner, whose injury sidelined him last season after he earned an 80.5 PFF grade at USC in 2024. His comeback solidifies an already strong backfield, giving the Red Raiders three capable contributors.

2. Missouri

Missouri's backfield is anchored by Ahmad Hardy, seen as the top running back in the nation after recording an impressive 1,181 yards after contact as a sophomore. After an incident in May left him injured, Hardy has received medical clearance, sparking optimism for a strong start. If he can't contribute right away, Jamal Roberts, who excelled with 759 rushing yards and significant yardage after contact last season, is primed to pick up the slack. The addition of Xai’Shaun Edwards from Houston Christian, noted for his 48 forced missed tackles, further enhances Missouri's backfield.

3. Ole Miss

Trailing just behind Missouri is Ole Miss, driven by Kewan Lacy, a consensus top-five running back following a standout season where he recorded 24 rushing touchdowns. The Rebels have bolstered their roster with notable transfers, including Makhi Frazier from Michigan State, who led his previous team with 541 rushing yards. Southern Utah's Joshua Dye, who notched 28 rushing touchdowns in FCS play, adds another dimension to their offense.

4. Florida

Florida's leading back, Jadan Baugh, is generating buzz as a probable first-round pick in the upcoming NFL Draft, underscoring his value as the most impactful returning Power Four running back since 2024. The Gators have also added Evan Pryor from Cincinnati, who ranked top in the Big 12 for yards after contact, and London Montgomery from East Carolina, who recorded seven rushing touchdowns last season.

5. Louisville

Isaac Brown’s consistent performance puts him at the forefront of Louisville’s backfield for a third straight year, boasting an average of 7.8 yards per carry—the best among FBS runners since 2024. His efficiency speaks volumes, while teammate Keyjuan Brown adds strength with a commendable 7.3 yards per attempt last season, making them a formidable duo.

6. Texas

Following a disappointing run game last season, Texas made influential changes, acquiring high-profile transfers Raleek Brown from Arizona State and Hollywood Smothers from NC State. Their experience and skills should significantly improve a backfield that struggled with the fifth-worst EPA per run in the Power Four last season.

7. Georgia

Nate Frazier heads Georgia's backfield, establishing himself as one of the premier running backs nationally after forcing 40 missed tackles in 2025. Alongside him, Chauncey Bowens enters his sophomore year with a promising 526 rushing yards last season, enhanced by the arrival of Kentucky transfer Dante Dowdell, who adds further depth with his own solid rushing record.

8. Miami (FL)

Mark Fletcher Jr. emerges as a top-10 running back following a stellar 92.0 PFF rushing grade last season. Miami also retains CharMar Brown and Girard Pringle Jr., ensuring depth. A healthy Jordan Lyle joins the group, having averaged 5.8 yards per carry over his initial two seasons with the Hurricanes, providing diverse options in their offensive strategy.

9. Ohio State

Replacing Quinshon Judkins and TreVeyon Henderson might have seemed daunting, but Ohio State finds promise in Bo Jackson, who notched 36 explosive runs as a freshman. Entering his sophomore year, he's already recognized as a top-10 running back for the upcoming season. They also welcome Florida's Ja’Kobi Jackson, providing additional backfield depth.

10. Oregon

Oregon makes the cut largely due to standout performances from sophomores Dierre Hill Jr. and Jordan Davison. Hill achieved a remarkable 90.8 PFF grade as a freshman, while also boasting the nation’s highest yards per carry at 8.9. Davison contributed significantly as well, rushing for 15 touchdowns, showcasing a potent 1-2 punch that challenges defenses.

As the season inches closer, these running back units are set to play pivotal roles in their teams' successes. Expect a dynamic and engaging season as these athletes showcase their skills on the field.