Football: Breaking down the elements of Wisconsin’s 2018 running back depth

Quarterback, offensive line and running back are three areas of importance for any successful college offense. The 2018 Wisconsin Badgers have a wealth of options available to them at these positions, and the backfield is as deep as it’s ever been in Madison.

The Badgers’ offense in 2018 has a chance to become truly special thanks to a veteran QB, an embarrassment of riches on the O-Line, and the transcendence of star running back, Jonathan Taylor. And while Taylor has a passion for cutting through opposing defenses, he’s also passionate about science. Along with Taylor, Wisconsin goes four deep at the position; this type of depth means that each running back will have a chance to be a catalyst on any drive. It’s no secret Taylor is the vital oxygen the offense needs to survive. But his fellow backfield mates also take up some important elements in the scientific scoring equation.

Chris James:

Scientific Element: Lithium

Lithium’s primary usage is in nuclear reactions, grease lubricants, and lithium batteries. Much like the energy bunny, James has emerged as a vital 3^rd down back for the Badgers that can help power long drives. When things get bogged down in the trenches, James has the ability to provide a nice change of pace to Taylor. He’s a key piece in keeping the methodical gears of Wisconsin’s offense moving. James should have a bigger role as the primary backup to Taylor in his final year of eligibility.

Bradrick Shaw:

Scientific Element: Helium

The talent and hype around Shaw are hard to question, but the decision making of the then sophomore running back made many Badger fans delirious – a side effect of too much helium. He has an innate knack to deliver devastating one-cut movements in zone blocking, but several times last season it seemed like he was hitting the wrong hole. With another year in Paul Chryst’s scheme, Shaw has a chance to excel as a viable third option for the Badgers. If he hits his stride, expect the Badgers’ offense to rise to higher, helium-filled heights.

Garrett Groshek:

Scientific Element: Nitrogen

Then redshirt-freshman running back burst onto the scene last season. He went from a relative nobody during camp to a trusted playmaker and chain mover during the second half of the season. This year, Groshek should have even more opportunity to provide a nitrogen boost to the run-heavy offense. Groshek’s quickness to the hole is hard to beat and should result in several big plays this year. Get excited.

Taiwan Deal:

Scientific Element: Krypton

I struggled with what element to give to Deal, mostly because his value is so unknown in this offense, just like Krypton’s understated presence in our atmosphere. Deal had an impressive freshman campaign racking up six touchdowns. Many Badger fans thought Deal would grow into a vital playmaker. That projection hasn’t transpired due to a down 2016 and an injury-plagued 2017. In his final year of eligibility, Deal has the chance to make a lasting impact on this team.