Top 3 High School Running Backs

To continue the series of position group rankings, here are my top 3 running backs for the 2012 class:

3. Randy "Duke" Johnson- Miami Norland High School, Miami, Florida- In a class that is full of explosive running backs, Duke Johnson is near the top of the list when it comes to raw athleticism and ability. Listed at 5'9 and in the 185 lb. range, Johnson may be a little undersized, but it's his incredible skill set that has many 'Canes fans excited about his future at "The U." Playing against some of the most athletic competition in the country in Miami, Johnson truly separates himself with his 4.4 speed and gaudy open field moves. Don't think that he is just a speed runner though; Johnson's highlight tape shows numerous occasions that he overpowers defenders in the hole and out in space. He could contribute early at the next level returning kicks, at the running back position, or even lined up in the slot. With offers from FSU, Florida, Georgia, and Texas, Johnson has received attention from a lot of the big boys, but ultimately will stay at home and play for Al Golden at the U.

Film courtesy of canefreak2001: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DbxbK5MzmVw

2. Trey Williams- Andy Dekaney High School, Houston, Texas- All it takes are the first three plays of Trey Williams highlight film to see the he is a special talent. At 5'8 and around 180 lbs, Williams has the breakaway speed that is rare even at the college level. While his size would indicate that he is more of a spread running back, his film shows that he is more than capable of handling the rock 20+ times as an I-Back. With sub 4.4 speed and every elusive move in his arsenal, Williams is a threat to take it the distance every time. Although he is committed to Texas A&M, he boasts offers from the "who's who" of college football including Alabama, LSU, Arkansas, Oregon, Oklahoma State, and many more.

Senior film compliments of gpowers22: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8ciiXKa9XTw

1. Keith Marshall- Millbrook High School, Raleigh, North Carolina- Keith Marshall is not only a top running back in the country, but perhaps a top 5 overall athlete in the 2012 class. Listed at 5'11 and 190 pounds, Marshall boasts the rare combination of good size and sub 4.4 speed. Watching his highlight film, I can't help but compare his highlights to that Reggie Bush in high school. I'm not saying that Marshall will produce Bush-esque results at the next level, but his agility, vision, and speed make him the top back in the land. With an offer sheet of more than 20 listed on both Rivals and Scout, Marshall was arguably the most coveted back of the 2012 class. While he may not start right away at Georgia (Isaiah Crowell was a top back in the 2011 class), Marshall will find his way onto the field in the return game, spotting Crowell, and even at wide receiver early in his career. Some of his top offers include LSU, USC, Alabama, FSU, and Notre Dame.

Junior film thanks to millbrookfootballer4: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6u7ElD8oJ5I

Up next, the 2012 top 3 wide receivers!