Colts Camp Battles: Backup Running Back
By Evan Reller
Dec 31, 2014; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Mississippi State Bulldogs running back Josh Robinson (13) runs past Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets defensive lineman Shawn Green (97) during the first quarter in the 2014 Orange Bowl at Sun Life Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports
2014 College Stats: 1,203 yards, 11 TDs, 6.3 YPA
Robinson seems like a late round pick who is going to be a starting running back at some point in the future. In a couple years, Gore won’t be with the Colts anymore and that job could be Robinson’s for the taking.
For now, he’s going to have to fight Herron for the backup spot. While Robinson has a decent shot at the position, he’s going to be fighting an uphill battle against a proven player who is more familiar with the playbook and already has a relationship with Luck.
Robinson has all the attributes you want in a runner. He’s decisive, explosive, and tough to take down. From Pro Football Focus: “He broke 48 tackles on 190 carries while averaging 3.5 yards after contact per attempt.” He has been compared to Maurice Jones-Drew (who probably still makes Colts fans uncomfortable) at times as well.
He is limited as a pass catcher and has a limited route running tree at his disposal (but most running backs usually do). At times he also struggles as a pass blocker, but merely needs to work on his technique.
Robinson will get his shot, but don’t expect him to be featured in drives much this season.
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