Indianapolis Colts: Breaking down running back situation

By Luis Tirado Jr. | May 15, 2015

It’s been quite a while since the Indianapolis Colts fielded a competent rushing attack to compliment quarterback Andrew Luck‘s style of play. The high-tempo offense of the Colts could be even more dangerous if it can launch a potent ground game. During the offseason, the Colts knew if they wanted to keep pushing the envelope and have what it takes to finally make it back to the Super Bowl, they needed to bolster that part of the team. What exactly will the Colts’ running back situation look like come next season?

Right off the bat, the Colts added a home run threat in running back Frank Gore this offseason. Considering that he’s been having a four-year streak of rushing for over 1,000 yards and being a durable starter, Gore should easily be a frontrunner to be their starting running back this upcoming season.

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Running backs Dan Herron, Vick Ballard and newly drafted Josh Robinson will all be battling it out this summer during training camps for his backup and third-string option at the position. Each bring something different to the table but ultimately must step up their game if they are to give the Colts a much-needed dimension on offense.

Herron should be able to lock up being Gore’s backup since he has shown signs of being brilliant. Even though he has a bit of a turnover issue, he has a knack at keeping those chains moving by doing anything it takes to get a first down the moment the football is in his hands.

When it comes to Ballard, his injury history doesn’t bode well for him continuing what he use to do best since he’s coming off two severe lower body injuries. Coming back from a torn ACL and an Achilles injury isn’t easy but he might be fighting a losing battle.

Considering how consistent Gore has been and how Herron only gets better the more reps he gets, Ballard might not make it on the final roster. Even though he’ll most likely be kept on a reserve role on the Colts’ practice squad, it’s hard to imagine the Colts wanting to commit to him considering his past of missing significant time due to injury.

Nov 1, 2014; Starkville, MS, USA; Mississippi State Bulldogs running back Josh Robinson (13) carries the ball against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Davis Wade Stadium. The Bulldogs defeat the Razorbacks 17-10. Mandatory Credit: Marvin Gentry-USA TODAY Sports

Keep an eye on Robinson as he transitions into the NFL nicely since he could be quite the hidden gem the Colts need to bolster their running game. In his collegiate career at Mississippi State, Robinson contributed 1,997 yards on 323 carries for 15 touchdowns.

Robinson also has the ability to be a solid option in the Colts’ receiving game as he also caught 43 receptions for 493 yards and a touchdown in college. Not only is he a power runner but he’s pretty elusive and breaks tackles easily once he gains full momentum.

Overall, the Colts can finally brag about having a much better situation at running back than they’ve had in years. Gone are the days of Trent Richardson as now a new era of power running will finally make the Colts stop being a one-dimensional pass oriented team.

Keep an eye on how great this running back corps will be come next season since it has what it takes to truly be something special to watch once the games start to matter.

Next: Colts: Expectations for Phillip Dorsett

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