Top 10 College Football Running Back Units for 2025 🏈

As the 2025 college football season approaches, the spotlight shines on running back units across the nation. While this position demands immense physical strength and agility, teams are refining their strategies by diversifying their backfields rather than leaning on a single player. Here’s a breakdown of the top 10 running back units you should keep an eye on this upcoming season!

1. Penn State Nittany Lions 🦁

The Nittany Lions stand out with two remarkable players making the top-10 returning running backs list: Nicholas Singleton (No. 3) and Kaytron Allen (No. 6). Singleton boasts the highest receiving yards among Power Four backs with an impressive total of 682 yards, along with a strong wins above average (WAA) score. Allen, on the other hand, ranks just behind him with 2,000 rushing yards and a stellar 92.5 rushing grade.

Additionally, Penn State has a promising trio of talented recruits: Corey Smith, Quinton Martin, and Jabree Wallace-Coleman. This depth will make the Lions a formidable force in every game they play!

2. Notre Dame Fighting Irish 🍀

In a strong second place, the Fighting Irish may not have two top-10 running backs, but they feature the exceptional Jeremiyah Love—considered the best running back in college football. Love finished last season as the second-most valuable back, reflecting his impressive 38% forced missed tackle rate.

Backing him up is Jadarian Price, who excels in gaining yards after contact, while Aneyas Williams and redshirt freshman Kedren Young add further depth. This backfield is set to shine bright in the 2025 season!

3. Texas Longhorns 🤘

The Longhorns' backfield is packed with talent even without a top-10 standout. Quintrevion Wisner, returning for his junior season, amassed 1,060 rushing yards last year. Wisner was initially not expected to be the starter, as that role was assigned to CJ Baxter, the top running back recruit in 2023. While Baxter's injury sidelined him last season, he is gearing up for a comeback in 2025. Texas also boasts recruits like Jerrick Gibson, Christian Clark, and James Simon to further bolster their ranks.

4. Louisville Cardinals 🐦

The Cardinals face a new era after losing their stellar running backs Jawhar Jordan and Isaac Guerendo to the NFL. However, the emergence of true freshmen Isaac Brown and Duke Watson puts them right back in the mix. Brown made an immediate impact with 1,168 rushing yards as a freshman, boasting a hefty 7.2 yards per carry average. Meanwhile, Watson excelled with 8.7 yards per carry and a top PFF grade for true freshmen.

5. Texas A&M Aggies 🌟

After a challenging previous season, Le’Veon Moss is back and ready to reclaim his position after a knee injury cut his junior year short. His ability to gain 4.4 yards after contact put him among the best prior to his injury. Amari Daniels is a solid backup, and both Rueben Owens and E.J. Smith offer additional options, highlighting the depth of the Aggies’ backfield.

6. Oregon Ducks 🦆

With the addition of Makhi Hughes, the Ducks significantly empowered their backfield. As the top running back transfer this season, Hughes has generated 1,982 rushing yards after contact in his prior seasons—a notable statistic! Returning back Noah Whittington complements Hughes well, boasting an impressive 87.1 rushing grade. Together, this duo promises to be electrifying on the field!

7. Oklahoma Sooners 🌪️

The Sooners are banking on Jaydn Ott, a former California Golden Bear, to lead their charge. While he faced some struggles last season due to injury, he previously demonstrated significant skills over two seasons before transferring. Alongside him, Jovontae Barnes returns as the leading rusher, and sophomore Taylor Tatum also adds his own flair as a top recruit.

8. Georgia Bulldogs 🐶

The Bulldogs added key players like Nate Frazier, who enters the season with impressive accolades, including 671 rushing yards. With the recent acquisition of Josh McCray from Illinois, Georgia is looking to solidify their running game. Veteran Cash Jones enhances their options with receiving capabilities, indicating a well-rounded backfield.

9. Minnesota Golden Gophers 🌾

Darius Taylor, entering his junior year, is a player to watch with a 79.9 PFF receiving grade. His versatile skill set allows him to be an all-around asset for the Gophers. Additionally, welcoming transfer A.J. Turner, who led the nation with 8.3 yards per carry, amplifies their offensive strategy moving forward.

10. Baylor Bears 🐻

Bryson Washington had an impressive redshirt freshman season, rushing for 1,035 yards and earning an 87.9 rushing grade. Dawson Pendergrass also maintained strong performance levels, contributing 671 rushing yards. The addition of a highly-rated recruit, Michael Turner, signals a bright future for the Bears’ running game.

Honorable Mention: LSU Tigers 🐯

On the horizon, LSU boasts Caden Durham, who had a standout debut with 749 rushing yards. With the addition of two top-10 running back recruits for the 2025 class, LSU remains a team to watch in the college football landscape.

As the college football season nears, these running back units are set to electrify fans and lead their teams towards victory. Prepare your game days accordingly; it's sure to be a thrilling season! 🎉