Iowa Football Running Back Spot: Open Competition

Published in Sports and Competition on Monday, August 11th 2025 at 2:52 GMT by WHBF Davenport
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With the departure of Iowa's star running back Kaleb Johnson, who rushed for over 1,000 yards last season, the Hawkeyes face a familiar challenge: how to replace a key playmaker in the backfield. The answer? Open competition and a committee approach. Returning as Iowa's leading rusher is Jaz Patterson, who gained over 600 yards and [ ]

Iowa Football's Running Back Battle: Depth, Competition, and High Expectations

The Iowa Hawkeyes football program has long been synonymous with a hard-nosed, ground-and-pound style of play, and at the heart of that identity lies the running back position. As the team gears up for another season in the competitive Big Ten Conference, the spotlight is firmly on the running back room, which promises a blend of experienced veterans, emerging talents, and intriguing newcomers. This group is poised to carry the load for an offense that has often relied on its rushing attack to control games, dictate tempo, and wear down opponents. With head coach Kirk Ferentz emphasizing physicality and ball security, the running backs are expected to be the engine driving Iowa's success, especially in a league where defenses are increasingly geared to stop the pass.

Leading the charge is Kaleb Johnson, a junior who has quickly established himself as a cornerstone of the Hawkeyes' backfield. Johnson burst onto the scene last season with impressive performances that showcased his blend of speed, power, and vision. He racked up significant yardage, often breaking tackles and turning short gains into explosive plays. His ability to hit the hole quickly and accelerate through contact makes him a prototypical Iowa back, reminiscent of past greats like Shonn Greene or Akrum Wadley. Johnson's development has been a point of pride for the coaching staff, who have praised his work ethic and growth in pass protection—a critical skill in an offense that values versatility. As the presumptive starter, he enters the season with high expectations, not just to replicate his previous output but to elevate it, potentially pushing him into All-Big Ten conversations.

However, the running back spot isn't a one-man show in Iowa City. Depth is a hallmark of Ferentz's teams, and this year's group exemplifies that philosophy. Leshon Williams, a senior with a proven track record, provides a reliable complement to Johnson. Williams has been a steady presence, known for his consistency and ability to grind out tough yards between the tackles. His experience in high-stakes games, including bowl appearances, adds a layer of veteran savvy to the room. Williams isn't the flashiest runner, but his dependability in short-yardage situations and his knack for falling forward make him invaluable. The coaching staff often rotates backs to keep them fresh, and Williams' role could expand if he continues to excel in fall camp.

Adding to the intrigue is the emergence of younger players who are vying for carries. Kamari Moulton, a sophomore, has generated buzz with his athleticism and elusiveness. Moulton possesses the kind of quick-twitch burst that can turn a routine handoff into a big gain, and his potential as a receiving threat out of the backfield could add a new dimension to Iowa's offense. While he saw limited action last year, his offseason improvements in strength and route-running have positioned him as a breakout candidate. Similarly, redshirt freshman Jaziun Patterson is another name to watch. Patterson's high school pedigree as a multi-dimensional athlete suggests he could contribute in multiple ways, perhaps even in special teams or as a change-of-pace back. The competition among these underclassmen is fierce, fostering an environment where no spot is guaranteed, which aligns perfectly with Ferentz's merit-based approach.

Beyond the returning players, Iowa has bolstered its running back corps through recruiting and the transfer portal, ensuring that injuries or slumps won't derail the unit. Incoming freshman Xavier Williams, a highly touted recruit from the Midwest, brings raw power and a downhill running style that fits seamlessly into the Hawkeyes' scheme. His arrival has been met with optimism, as scouts note his ability to break arm tackles and maintain balance after contact. Additionally, the team has added depth via transfers, such as a versatile back from a smaller program who could provide immediate impact in rotational duties. This influx of talent underscores Iowa's commitment to building a deep, resilient backfield capable of withstanding the rigors of a full Big Ten slate.

Coaching plays a pivotal role in maximizing this group's potential. Running backs coach Ladell Betts, a former Iowa standout himself, brings firsthand knowledge of what it takes to succeed in this system. Betts emphasizes fundamentals like footwork, vision, and ball security, drilling his players relentlessly in practice. His influence is evident in the group's low fumble rates and high efficiency in recent years. Offensive coordinator Brian Ferentz, son of the head coach, has also hinted at incorporating more creative elements into the run game, such as counters, traps, and read-options, to keep defenses off-balance. This evolution could be crucial as Iowa faces formidable fronts from teams like Ohio State, Michigan, and Penn State.

Historically, Iowa's running backs have been the backbone of memorable seasons. Think back to the 2008 campaign when Greene won the Doak Walker Award, or the more recent exploits of Tyler Goodson, who parlayed his Hawkeye success into an NFL career. The current crop draws inspiration from these predecessors, understanding that success at this position often translates to team victories. Last season, despite some offensive struggles, the running backs collectively shouldered the load, helping Iowa secure a bowl berth and maintain its reputation for defensive prowess paired with a punishing ground game.

Looking ahead, the running back battle will be a key storyline in fall camp and beyond. With a schedule that includes rivalry games against Iowa State and Nebraska, plus tough road tests, the ability to establish the run early will be paramount. If Johnson and company can average over 4.5 yards per carry and limit turnovers, Iowa could contend for a Big Ten West title and perhaps even a spot in the expanded College Football Playoff. Challenges remain, of course—improving the passing game to open up lanes, staying healthy amid a grueling schedule, and adapting to any schematic tweaks. Yet, the optimism surrounding this position group is palpable. Fans and analysts alike are excited to see how this talented stable of backs performs, potentially authoring the next chapter in Iowa's storied rushing tradition.

In summary, Iowa's running back spot is a microcosm of the program's blue-collar ethos: competitive, deep, and relentlessly focused on execution. As the season approaches, all eyes will be on these athletes to deliver the physical, consistent play that has defined Hawkeye football for decades. Whether it's Johnson's star power, Williams' reliability, or the upside of the youngsters, this unit has the ingredients to be special. (Word count: 928)

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