The Falcons’ Epic Battle at Backup Running Back

Overtime Heroics Editorial

2222 days ago

Devonta Freeman will be the starting running back for the Atlanta Falcons. He has proven this time and time again. Although there is a battle brewing in camp for the backup position. There are two running backs that will see most of the reps in training camp and during the preseason in the battle of the backup backs.

Analyzing the Falcons Backup Running Backs

Ito Smith

Ito Smith is the Falcons former fourth-round draft choice from 2018. The former Southern Mississippi Golden Eagle came into the season as the third running back on the depth chart. Firmly behind Devonta Freeman and Tevin Coleman. In 2018, Smith received 90 carries which he turned into 315 yards and 4 touchdowns. However, Smith truly excels in the receiving game. Having reeled in 27 receptions for 152 yards a season ago. With Coleman gone, Ito Smith will garner his opportunity to live up to the expectations he grew for himself a season ago.

Battle of the backups Falcons — Ito Smith should be ready to take on added responsibility.

Basically, Ito Smith is a over-sized workhorse. He lacks speed and aggressiveness, but he excels in pass catching. One of his better abilities is how low he stays to the ground. He also does a great job following his blocking until he can stretch a play out. With Smith being a natural workhorse in college, it should make him overly susceptible to injury.

Brian Hill

Brian Hill, out of Wyoming, was the Falcons fifth-round pick in 2017. He played for the Cincinnati Bengals that same season after losing his spot on the Falcons roster. This was only to came back last season just to sit at the bottom of the depth chart.

Hill’s experience would allow him to run a full workload if needed. He has average speed, but loves to hit defenders. He always comes in low for an added advantage. It is extremely hard to take him down high. Hill’s form makes the defense attempt to tackle low allowing Hill to evade more tackles. The big key for any coach is having a running back that protects the football. Hill does that and is also a huge help to the blocking schemes. A must-have for any passing-based offense.

Who will be the immediate backup to Freeman in ATL?

The crowd favorite has to be Ito Smith, due to his consistency. There is reason to believe Brian Hill can gain the advantage with the coaching staff. This due to the many correlative qualities he possesses. If Hill doesn’t step up quickly, he will find himself at the tail end of the depth chart once again.