Love McCombs. The funny thing about McCombs is that there were times last season when he hit the wrong hole, he couldn't break the tackle that DB/AD/JT(junior year) would have, he couldn't break away from the pack. Sometimes a kid just doesn't pass the eye test. He doesn't have the measureables. And then you put him on the field, and he delivers. And delivers. And delivers - to the tune of a freshman year comparable to TC and Tory Taylor(man I had high hopes for him). I think McCombs will continue to grow and he'll have another 1k season with his cohorts getting more yards this year. He's shiftier than some in this thread have stated - not TC shifty, but he's got some shake. Part of growing as a running back is learning how to use that wiggle in tight space or even in the open field. As a freshman, you're running to daylight and trying not to get smacked. As an upperclassman, you're setting up your blocks, letting your moves flow with what the defense gives you. You're waiting for a chance to spring a spin move on a safety. He'll be our go-to guy, and he'll be better in year two. I am pretty excited about Osiecki. For lots of reasons - first because he was overshadowed at LB by some hugely talented kids, and this gives him a chance to get on the field and produce. Second because he's a CT kid. And third because he really does have some skills - he can put a hat on a defender and clear space, and he looks like a solid receiver out of the backfield. To me, FB is not the type of position you really need to grow into (a la Sherman as a freshman) - you get your blocking assignment and you pop the defender in the mouth. I think he can get in on around 40-50% of plays and will be a solid ST guy.
As long as you can hold on to the rock and move the pile, put the best rb in. LM was great for a freshman. The comparisons to DB and JT are nonsense. We remember their final seasons not their first. Excited to see him run all over UMASS! 23 days.
