5 Potential Breakout Players To Watch: Offense

Yesterday we took a look at the potential breakout players for the Jackrabbit defense and today we are looking at the breakout candidates for the offense.  This group is interesting because of the losses of some outstanding seniors.  However, the cupboard is far from bare.  The Jackrabbit offense will likely be more of a balanced attack in 2018.  There are many experienced returning players (Taryn Christion, Wes Genant, Jacob Brown, Marquise Lewis, Mikey Daniel, Isaac Wallace, Tiano Pupungatoa) but there are also others who Jackrabbit fans may not be as familiar with.    

#20 Pierre Strong and #8 CJ Wilson are two freshmen running backs who have very different styles.  Strong is powerful with the ball in his hands and seems to always fall forward.  Strong seems to fit the classic mold of the powerful workhorse back that Jackrabbit fans have enjoyed over the years.  Wilson is shifty and really dynamic carrying the ball.  The Jacks have not had a running back like him in recent memory with the ability to make guys miss.  I wouldn't expect tons of carries for either one of these guys given the experience of Mikey Daniel and Isaac Wallace but I would expect them to have a small role in the offense that could contribute some explosive plays.

#24 Deyon Campbell was a very hyped recruit and that excitement only grew following a strong spring ball season.  The slot wide receiver position is loaded with Marquise Lewis and Cade Johnson returning after solid 2017 campaigns.  However, Deyon is too explosive with the ball in his hands for the coaches to not find ways to get him a handful of touches each game.

#80 Adam Anderson was on my list in 2017 and started off hot against Duquesne.  However, after that game a combination of injuries derailed his season.  This summer, Adam has again had an awesome camp.  His combination of size and speed is good but what sets him apart is his wonderful route running.  At times, he has completely fooled the cornerbacks and ran himself wide open.  Adam had a very good freshmen campaign and a subpar sophomore season but I am really expecting big things from him in 2018. 

#36 Luke Sellers replaces fan favorite Kane Louscher at fullback in 2018.  Louscher paved the way for four years and was a major contributor for a strong rushing attack over that time.  Sellers steps in to an often overlooked position and will be expected to make plays this season.  So far, he his been lauded for his athleticism and power.  The coaches think they can do some unique things with Luke because of that combination.  Last year Luke filled in and helped create some massive holes in goal line and short yardage situations.  Look for Luke to expand on that role this season.

#54 Eddie Miller will start the season at right guard for the Jackrabbit offense.  Last year he played as a true freshmen at left guard.  Eddie has added muscle and weight since getting to campus and does a good job in both the pass and run game.  He also has the ability to slide to center in a pinch. 

Like the defense, there are many others who could have been on this list. Eagan Lickiss as a swing offensive lineman, freshman Blake Kunz at tight end, and Isaiah Hill at wide receiver are all players who could make a big impact in 2018.  We will soon find out a little more about this team as September 1st is almost here. 

Go Jacks!
Matt