Syracuse Football 2020 Positional Preview: Running backs

Other options on the roster

Syracuse is going to have to rely heavily on the run game this season to put points on the board. The first three running backs mentioned will deal with the most carries. However, there are four more running backs listed on the roster. While these four players may not touch the ball a ton this season, they need to be ready in case they are called upon.

So let’s break down the remaining four and their credentials if required in a pinch for coach Babers.

First off, the reserves list should be redshirt junior Markenzy Pierre.

He is the only player to step foot on the field in their Syracuse tenure. Pierre has mainly played on special teams for the Orange through 27 games in three seasons.

In limited offensive action, Pierre ran the ball 38 times for 130 yards, which is around three and a half yards per carry. Out of the remaining options, Pierre has the most on-field experiences.

Next up is redshirt freshman Garrison Johnson. He is a powerful runner nearly 240 pounds and would be an option in short-yardage downs. If anything were to happen where the goal-line running back went down, then Johnson could be a viable option.

The last two names are Cooper Lutz and Jack Guida. Lutz is transitioning from his first two seasons at wide receiver and now becoming a running back. Guida is a redshirt junior that hasn’t played in a game yet. Neither of these players I expect to get much time this season but are an option if needed.