The University of Texas was able to land the number one running back recruit in the country in Bijan Robinson. As such, Robinson became a very popular early devy pick in offseason startups. Robinson hails from Tucson, Arizona (my hometown) and played high school football at Salpointe High School (my alma mater). In his senior season, Robinson was awarded The Arizona Gatorade Player of the Year after he carved up the local competition. Over his four-year high school career, Robinson gained over 7,000 rushing yards and had over 100 rushing touchdowns.
Having watched Robinson in person during his senior high school season I can tell you that he has every possible skill you could want in an elite running back. He has patience, vision, quick footwork, elite speed, and is built like a professional running back already. Watching him move through defenses with ease helped me understand why he was so highly touted coming out of high school. He looked like he was playing against pee wee football players in every game he played.
Disappointing Thus Far
Texas had massive expectations for Robinson the moment he set foot on campus. However, through his first three games, Robinson has only carried the ball 14 times for 67 yards, and he has yet to reach the end zone. Robinson recently appeared to defy the laws of physics after he had a scary moment on a hurdle gone wrong against Texas Tech.
Each week, the Longhorns faithful wonder when they’ll let Robinson loose on the competition. I wonder the same thing, as I have him on a devy roster and am anxiously awaiting his “arrival” on the scene. However, allow me to preach patience with this young runner. Robinson is an exceptional talent in both the running game and receiving game, but remember, his competition was against small (4A) Tucson high schools. His skills will absolutely translate into Big 12 football, but he may need some time to adapt to the pace of the game and earn his way on to the field.
Now, all that said, Texas is not running the ball well at all this season. Their leading rusher in attempts, yards, and touchdowns is their quarterback Sam Ehlinger. The other two running backs that have more attempts than Robinson are not doing much with their opportunities and, after an inauspicious 1-2 start, there may be more work in the near future for Robinson. His usage already appears to be on the incline; in his last game against Oklahoma, he totaled 56 scrimmage yards on seven touches. In that game, Robinson had more carries than any other Texas running back.
Have Patience
In devy, the name of the game is patience. Did we all want Bijan Robinson to be the guy in week one and get 20+ touches per game? Of course. But, that isn’t always how it shakes out. However, with less than elite competition in the backfield, he should see his touches continue to increase. Remember, Robinson still has two more full seasons to live up to the hype of being the number one running back prospect. Don’t get frustrated with Robinson after three games, as I believe he will be the primary ball carrier by seasons end.
Thanks for reading! Find me on Twitter @DFF_Ztrain and let me know what devy players you’re panicking on and which you’re preaching patience!
