Tide breakdown: Dissecting Alabama’s backfield for next season

A collective sigh was cast over Alabama fans at Raymond James Stadium in January, as sophomore running back Bo Scarbrough sustained a broken leg in the third quarter of the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game. The return of Scarbrough with Damien Harris, Josh Jacobs and B.J. Emmons, to pair with two freshmen – Najee Harris and Brian Robinson – will make for good conversations in regards to the Crimson Tide’s backfield.

With the exception of last season, Alabama has managed to have a No. 1 rusher in the Nick Saban era. While the reins switched hands often in 2016, the main question for Saban and running backs coach Burton Burns is will this year’s group function by committee or will the Tide ride the hot hand throughout the upcoming fall?

Damien Harris led the team in rushing yards (1,037); however, Scarbrough carried a team-high in touchdowns for backs with 11. In this edition of Tide Breakdown via Mark Rogers TV, yours truly of Touchdown Alabama Magazine joined Mark Rogers on Wednesday to dissect the Tide’s backfield for the 2017 season.

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.

Stephen M. Smith

Stephen Smith is a 2015 graduate of the University of Alabama. He is a senior writer and reporter for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. He has covered Alabama football for 10+ years and his knowledge and coverage of the Crimson Tide's program have made him among the most respected journalist in his field. Smith has been featured on ESPN and several other marquee outlets as an analyst.