SEC Power Rankings: Eastern Division running backs by team

Sep 21, 2013; Bloomington, IN, USA; Missouri Tigers running back Russell Hansbrough (32) rushes the ball against the Indiana Hoosiers during the second quarter at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports

No. 4 – Missouri Tigers

Probable Big Horses: Russell Hansbrough, Marcus Murphy, Morgan Steward

The Tigers are going to struggle compared to last season overall, but they’ll still be able to run the ball pretty well.

Hansbrough is primed for a breakout year, totaling  6.0 yards per carry last season and coming on strong as the number one back out of the Spring practices. Murphy will be used in both the return game and the backfield, and has the ability to break off a big one at any time with his speed. Redshirt sophomore Morgan Steward has the same type of speed that Murphy brings, only in a much bigger package.

Missouri only has a couple of backs entering as freshman, and neither of them look to be anything more than bench depth.

New starting quarterback Maty Mauk is going to be glad to have these guys to carry the offensive load for the Tigers.