Sutton Smith looks to continue trend at Running Back U

MEMPHIS – Over the past few years, the University of Memphis has liked to call itself Running Back U and why not.

It’s a program that’s sent the likes of Tony Pollard, Darrell Henderson, Antonio Gibson and Kenny Gainwell into the NFL.

This year, most people look at South Carolina transfer Mario Anderson as the next back to do big things at ‘RB U’ but let’s not forget about Sutton Smith.

Some Tiger fans were probably a little bit surprised to see both Smith and Anderson atop the first two-deep depth chart of the season as both have impressed since the spring with Smith out to build on two solid seasons in the blue and gray. Last year, he had almost 1000 yards of total offense for the Tigers.

It is his versatility that stands out on tape but the junior has also become a complete back, leaving him very excited for kickoff come Saturday night.

“I have been counting down the days for sure. It was a little hard for me to sleep last night because I was so excited, just envisioning what I’m about to do in the game, the crowd energy. It’s a big expectation,” Smith said. “Pressure is a privilege so I’m definitely looking forward to it. It’s going to be fun. I’m blessed to be in this position.”

And blessed to have the support of his teammates and his coaches.

“Sutton Smith is dynamic, he’s electric. He’ll make you miss in a phone booth. He was very good at that the last couple of years,” said Tigers offensive coordinator Tim Cramsey.  “What I’ve seen from him, we have seen from him since spring ball started is he has become more of a complete running back.”

Speaking of former Tiger running backs to make the NFL, you can now add a new name.

Blake Watson, who signed as an undrafted free agent with the Broncos after running for over 1000 yards at Memphis last year, has made Denver’s 53-man roster out of training camp after playing well in the preseason.

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