TUSCALOOSA, Ala.– A sprained foot against one of the NCAA’s worst rush defenses was not the ideal way for B.J. Emmons to end his freshman season at Alabama; however, that is exactly what occurred versus Texas A&M. After dominating the recruiting conversation between he and Josh Jacobs in 2016, Emmons would watch his teammate total nearly 600 rushing yards – 567 – with four touchdowns as he stood in frustration.
Emmons, a native of Morganton, N.C., enrolled on campus as a unanimous four-star prospect and the nation’s top-ranked running back per Rivals and ESPN’s recruiting sites. The alumnus of Freedom High School turned in a highlight tape that had college scouts salivating, amassing 6,599 rushing yards and 101 touchdowns through three seasons. At that time, the 6-foot and 208 pound rusher possessed the speed, vision and power between the tackles to create much success.
https://twitter.com/BamaVideo_/status/782405470996889600
He flashed a couple of tough runs a season ago, including his first rushing score versus Western Kentucky in week two at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Emmons would record 41 yards rushing against the Hilltoppers, while notching season-highs in carries versus Kent State (eight) and Tennessee with nine. He ended the year with 173 yards rushing and a touchdown on 35 carries through seven games, but could have done so much more if not for an indefinite sprained foot.
Although he did not participated in the 40-yard dash in spring testing, Emmons’ speed was already comfirmed at 4.32 seconds – the time he showed last summer via his Twitter account. Now at 237 pounds, the sophomore intends to avenge his freshman campaign with solid numbers.
4.32⏱ 40😬🙈
— BJ Emmons (@LiltrillPhenom) August 26, 2016
He has proven to be the strongest rusher on the team, maxing out at a 425-pound bench.
Despite the Tide not having a premiere “go to” ball carrier since Derrick Henry in 2015, the rotation of Emmons with Damien Harris, Bo Scarbrough, Josh Jacobs, Najee Harris and Brian Robinson will keep defensive coordinators on their toes. One thing for certain is Emmons is in Tuscaloosa for the competition and is preparing for his moment to shine for the Tide fans.
Stephen M. Smith is a managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @Smsmith_TDALMag.
