Game changing running backs are always needed at the University of Alabama. It returns Kenyan Drake and Derrick Henry, but loses T.J. Yeldon (NFL Draft) and Altee Tenpenny (transfer). Tyren Jones’s suspension creates an opportunity for someone else to emerge as Alabama’s third back in its rotation. Tuscaloosa native Bo Scarbrough looks to assume the role.
Scarbrough, standing at 6-foot-2 and 225 pounds, was a talented athlete at Northridge High School and IMG Academy in Brandenton, Fla. He accounted for 1,332 yards and 19 touchdowns on 12.3 yards per carry in his career. Scarbrough averaged 148.0 yards per game.
He showed signs of promise as a receiver in 2013. Scarbrough totaled 131 yards and three touchdowns on 10 receptions in eight games. He was a member of Alabama’s 2014 recruiting class, yet academics kept Scarbrough from being involved on campus.
He got his studies squared away, and was seen at Hank Crisp Indoor Facility in December 2014, participating in Alabama’s Sugar Bowl preparations. The five-star prospect was listed as an athlete, but Scarbrough has the tools to be a productive running back.
He’s roughly the same size as Henry (6-3/240), and has a combination of power, speed, vision and patience. Scarbrough is a solid pass catcher and an underrated blocker, but he must show how dedicated he is on special teams.
He will have to fend off three other backs, but his appearance during postseason practice gives him an edge. Alabama football will take the field for spring practice on Mar. 13, 2015. Scarbrough’s opportunity to play in front of a live audience will occur on Apr. 18, 2015, as Bryant-Denny stadium looks to pack out for Alabama’s annual A-Day game.
