Replacing Royce Freeman will be the most difficult challenge in Mario Cristobal’s first season as Oregon’s head coach. Many believe that the mix of experience, size, and skill amongst the Duck’s RBs will lead the new regime towards a running back by committee approach, however, the redshirt freshman CJ Verdell is making his case for the starting position.
During the spring game, Verdell had 44 yards and two touchdowns. More importantly, he seemed to best utilize the gaps the offensive line provided. At 5’9, 202 pounds, he has the same frame as Kani Benoit but with the potential of a higher top speed.