Where one Wildcat leaves off, two or three more take his place.
John Hubert had been it for K-State the last three years and that’s the way Bill Snyder likes it. But this year’s K-State team features two, perhaps three options at the running back position that could help propel the Wildcats to even greater success.
That’s the hope, anyways, and it was on full display Saturday against Stephen F. Austin, as the Wildcats rushing unit ran for 240 yards on 51 carries in a 55-16 blowout at a packed Bill Snyder Family Stadium.
“I think we’re all capable of going out there and playing well on any given night,” senior running back DeMarcus Robinson said after the game. “I think it matters who’s feeling it in a game. If he’s (Charles Jones) getting it or I’m getting it, it’s just going to be a game-to-game thing.”
Robinson and sophomore running back Charles Jones also combined for 64 yards on five receptions Saturday. The latter back also featured — and scored — in the ‘Wildcat’ formation.
“I think we all bring something a little bit different,” Robinson said. “My half, I think I have a little bit more experience, not as much in the games but being around the offense for so long.”
Quarterback Jake Waters says while seeing multiple running backs in the huddle throughout the game is different, it’s an added benefit for an already potent offensive attack.
“It doesn’t really matter, because I have all the confidence in the world in whoever they throw out there,” Waters said. “If it’s Charles (Jones), DeMarcus (Robinson) or if Glenn (Gronkowski) comes in, it gives us an opportunity to make a play and a chance to win.”
Snyder was quick to praise Jones in his post-game press conference despite not starting the back after Jones was listed atop the depth chart Tuesday.
It was a night of firsts for Jones. The biggest was undoubtedly his first touchdown in a K-State uniform — a feeling he says he’ll never forget.
“It was like no other,” Jones said. “It’s one of the happiest moments of my life, scoring my first collegiate touchdown, so it felt really good.”
Whether or not Snyder will stick to multiple running backs remains to be seen. But heading into next Saturday’s game against Iowa State, both Robinson and Jones will play an integral part on the ground and in the passing game as dual-threat running backs.
