JEFFERSON CITY, Tenn. - This is the second in an eight-part series that will break down what Carson-Newman football brings to the table for the 2014 season position by position. Today's preview features the Eagles' ground gainers and RB coach Nick Reveiz
Carson-Newman must find a way to replace All-American Brandon Baker and All-Region performer Tyron Douglas at tailback. The duo combined to rush for more than 6,400 yards in their C-N careers.
"I've been telling everyone that everyone in this group is really moldable and teachable," Reveiz said. "They enjoying coaching and taking critiques and as a coach, it doesn't get any better than that. We have good veterans coming back and some new players with a lot of potential. I'm excited to get fall camp kicked off."
Sometime starter Andy Hibbett returns, as do key reserves Marcellas Pope and Randall Freeman.
With 1,817 career rushing yards, Hibbett needs a little more than 600 yards rushing to crack the program's top 15 list for all-time rushing yards and 800 yards to break into the top 10. Hibbett scored nine touchdowns a year ago and had a pair of 100-yard games.
"I've really seen Andy this offseason to a good job of coaching up young guys, that's when you see signs of a leader," Reveiz said. "Not only is he intaking coaching and getting better, but he's making others around him better."
Pope saw action in the first six games of the year and gained 143 yards, scoring touchdowns against Brevard and Mars Hill. The Lions game was his best. Pope gained 71 yards on nine carries.
Freeman is back for his senior season after becoming an all-region performer for C-N track in the spring. Freeman gained 211 yards on 40 carries with a rushing touchdown.
"I'm really excited about what Randall's done work wise," Reveiz said. "Where he is a year ago to now is lightyears. He hasn't done as much on the field, so I'm thrilled for him to get carries and get a chance to block. His potential is sky high, he just has to realize it."
C-N's running back corps can go as far as its health; fortunately, Carson-Newman returns all of its sports medicine staff to assist with that end.
Reveiz touted a juco transfer in Damian Baker and returnees Jacoby Scharklet and Jamal Jones as names that Carson-Newman fans should be on the lookout for as camp breaks.
Carson-Newman football's position previews will continue Saturday with the Eagles' secondary
