Numerous running backs have come through Kansas State’s program, but they all shared one thing in common.
Not all of them were the standard size of a running back.
Yes, a running back is supposed to be smaller, but Kansas State’s running backs, such as Deuce Vaughn, John Huber, and Darren Sprole, were all even smaller than the average running back.
The incredible ability of Kansas State running backs to run the football and not let their size affect their game, however, is another trait they all share.
Which running backs from Kansas State’s football program were the best, then? Let’s examine this.
Alex Barnes, a 2015–2018 Kansas State player, is listed first on this list. Barnes redshirted his freshman year because he did not see the field, but he began to gradually integrate himself into the offense.
By his sophomore year, Barnes was a starter, and his best season was by far his junior one. Barnes finished his Kansas State career with 2,616 yards and 25 touchdowns overall.
Despite not playing in the NFL, Barnes had an outstanding final season at Kansas State, amassing 1,355 rushing yards, 194 receiving yards, and 12 rushing touchdowns. During Bill Snyder’s final seasons as Kansas State’s head coach, Barnes was a fantastic running back for the Cowboys.
When Daniel Thomas left in 2011, John Hubert assumed the starting role at running back. Hubert was a member of that incredible 2012 squad that was ranked No. 1 in the nation for a spell and nearly went to the National Championship.
Hubert, who is only seven yards short of 3,000 yards, is third on Kansas State’s all-time rushing yard list with 2,993 yards. Hubert saw plenty of touches and finished with 970 yards and three touchdowns even in 2011. But in 2012 and 2013, he scored more touchdowns—15 in 2012 and 13 in 2013.
Being the smallest player on the field, Hubert was renowned for his ability to find openings in the defense and launch the jets during the second phase. Hubert’s career-long success for the Wildcats can be attributed to his size and speed.
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