Notre Dame Football: The top five running backs the Irish will face in 2019
By Chase Eyrich
AJ Dillon, Boston College
There is no other way to put it: AJ Dillon is a different kind of talent. He’s the kind of player that’s going to go out there and get his no matter what.
The work has been put in, and now Dillon is looking to become one of the top running backs in college football.
Ironically, the junior has ties to Notre Dame. In the late 60’s and early 70’s, on the other side of the Holy War was Dillon’s grandfather, Thom Gatewood.
Gatewood was the first African American captain in Notre Dame history, as well as an All-American and most recently a member of the College Football Hall of Fame.
Dillon has quickly taken advantage of playing for Boston College. Finding his stride in dominating fashion didn’t take long. Halfway through his freshman season, Dillon took off.
In six of his final five games, the freshman rushed for 149 or more yards ending the season with an astonishing 1,589-yards.
Ever since, Dillon has paved the way however he pleases. Last season he rushed for over 110-yards per game, placing him at the top of the ACC.
Not only is he a downhill runner with great speed, but if you’re lucky enough to catch him, it’s going to take more than one defender to bring him down.
He has a great ability to recognize creases. What might be the most impressive is his balance. Despite any arm tackles are attempted, he finds ways to stay upright.
Dillon also possesses a prolific spin move and the strength needed to either fight his way to the end zone or throw a defender to the ground.
Next. Notre Dame football's toughest three-game stretch of 2019. dark
While Dillon has made himself a dominant player, Boston College’s offense has become predictable with him on the field. Nonetheless, the challenge is still there and Dillon will be the toughest running back Notre Dame faces this season.