The 2026 college football season is fast approaching, and with it, the return of one of the most exciting positions on the field: running back. The SEC, in particular, is gearing up for a thrilling season, with three of its stars making their way into ESPN analyst Greg McElroy's Top 10 rankings. But what makes these players stand out, and why should we be paying attention to them? Let's dive in and explore the top running backs in college football, with a focus on the SEC's rising stars.
The SEC's Rising Stars
The SEC is known for its competitive nature, and the 2026 season is no exception. Three of its running backs are in the top 10, with Missouri's Ahmad Hardy leading the charge. Despite an uncertain status due to a recent shooting, Hardy's achievements last season cannot be overlooked. He totaled 1,649 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns, and his spot at the top of the rankings is a testament to his talent. Personally, I think Hardy's ranking is a bold statement, and it's fascinating to see how McElroy handles the uncertainty surrounding his availability.
Another SEC star, Kewan Lacy from Ole Miss, comes in at No. 2. Lacy's sophomore season was impressive, with 1,567 rushing yards and an SEC-best 24 touchdowns. Even with a new offensive coordinator, McElroy believes Lacy will continue to shine. What makes this particularly fascinating is the potential for Lacy to adapt to a slightly different scheme while still maintaining his productivity. It's a testament to his versatility and skill.
The Rest of the Top 10
The top 10 rankings also include Jadan Baugh from Florida, who had a bright spot in an up-and-down year with 1,170 rushing yards and eight touchdowns. McElroy sees Baugh as a key retention for the new coaching staff and believes he could shine under the new offensive coordinator. The phrase 'Run The Baugh' is a fun insight into the team's mindset, and it's interesting to see how the new coordinator's influence might impact Baugh's performance.
Mark Fletcher from Miami, who led the ACC with 1,192 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns, is also in the top 10. Despite his impressive season, Fletcher decided to pass on the NFL Draft and return for his senior year. This decision raises a deeper question about the value of returning to college, and it's fascinating to see how players' motivations can vary.
Beyond the SEC
While the SEC is leading the charge, there are other talented running backs across the country. LJ Martin from BYU, who broke out with 1,305 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns as a junior, is a problem for defenses. His ability to play through injury and undergo surgery shows his determination and skill. It's a reminder that talent can overcome adversity, and it's interesting to see how Martin's story might inspire others.
Caleb Hawkins from Oklahoma State is another standout. After a huge freshman year at North Texas, Hawkins is reuniting with Eric Morris at Oklahoma State. His skill set should translate well, and McElroy believes he will be every bit as productive as he was at North Texas. It's a testament to the power of a strong freshman year and the potential for growth.
Under-Exposed Talent
Antwan Raymond from Rutgers is a player who might be under-exposed. With 1,241 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns in his first year as the lead back, Raymond led the high-powered rushing attack. McElroy believes he's in line to be a Top-10 running back as a junior, and it's interesting to see how his speed and size might be overlooked by some.
A Big Year for Running Backs
The 2026 college football season is shaping up to be a big year for running backs. With so much talent across the country, from the SEC to other conferences, it's exciting to see how these players will perform. The rankings provide a snapshot of the current landscape, but it's the actual performances on the field that will truly matter.
In my opinion, the top 10 rankings are a great starting point for exploring the talent in college football. However, it's important to remember that these rankings are just a snapshot, and the actual performances on the field will determine the true champions. The SEC might be leading the charge, but there are other conferences and players who could surprise us. It's a thrilling time for college football, and I can't wait to see how the season unfolds.
