Notre Dame football: State of the running back room
By Tyler Kruse
Notre Dame football has had a few positions with big question marks as of late, but the running-back room is far from a concern.
Notre Dame football: Current standouts in the running back room
Our previous installment of the “State of” series focused on the quarterback position, which, as we know, has been a rollercoaster for years at Notre Dame. However, even that group got some good news within the past few days with rumors of Kenny Minchey landing at Notre Dame. That said, one group we haven’t had to worry about, and won’t have to moving forward, is the running-back unit. Notre Dame football consistently has a top offensive line and top running backs to exploit the massive holes given to them.
The running backs that see substantial playing time on the roster include Chris Tyree, Logan Diggs, Audric Estime, Gi’Bran Payne, and Jadarian Price. While Tyree is the oldest as a true junior, even he can stick around for at least one more season. Diggs and Estime, the two stars of the room right now, are both true sophomores. Payne and Price are both true freshmen. While they have yet to get much playing time this year, that figures to change in the coming years. Of course, Jadarian is out due to injury.
All of the backs that have seen significant time this year bring their unique play style to the position group. Chris Tyree is the lightning-quick back with the speed that, if given room, has the chance for big play ability at any moment. Estime is more of a power-style running back though he certainly has enough speed to be an all-purpose player at the college level. Last but not least, Logan Diggs reminds me of a proper all-around back. Diggs can break off huge plays and lower his shoulder when needed, all while trying to channel his inner Kyren Williams and be patient before hitting the hole.
The RB unit is as good as one could imagine. With the return of Jadarian Price next year, they’ll be the best unit in the nation. Not one of nor a possibility, I’m confident in saying the absolute best. Price was the clear standout running back from camp and the spring game. He’s an explosive, patient, and genuinely dynamic runner with an incredibly bright future as a Notre Dame football back. Even better, Notre Dame has more studs lined up for the class of 2023 and even leads for some talent in the class of 2024.