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2018 NFL Scouting Combine: Top 5 running backs to watch

By Florito Maniego

GLENDALE, AZ - DECEMBER 30: Running back Saquon Barkley #26 of the Penn State Nittany Lions runs the football 92 yards to score a touchdown against the Washington Huskies during the first half of the PlayStation Fiesta Bowl at University of Phoenix Stadium on December 30, 2017 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Jennifer Stewart/Getty Images)
GLENDALE, AZ - DECEMBER 30: Running back Saquon Barkley #26 of the Penn State Nittany Lions runs the football 92 yards to score a touchdown against the Washington Huskies during the first half of the PlayStation Fiesta Bowl at University of Phoenix Stadium on December 30, 2017 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Jennifer Stewart/Getty Images) /
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BATON ROUGE, LA – OCTOBER 01: Derrius Guice #5 of the LSU Tigers runs for a first down against the Missouri Tigers at Tiger Stadium on October 1, 2016 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images)
BATON ROUGE, LA – OCTOBER 01: Derrius Guice #5 of the LSU Tigers runs for a first down against the Missouri Tigers at Tiger Stadium on October 1, 2016 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images) /

No. 2: Derrius Guice (LSU)

Despite suffering an injury, LSU’s Derrius Guice still had a remarkable 2017 season as he became healthier.

Guice is one of the most dynamic and well-rounded running backs entering this year’s draft. Therefore, many eyes will be on him during the combine.

With his combination of speed, strength and awareness, Guice is well-suited to become a three-down NFL starter. The 5-foot-11 and 212-pound running back also has good balance and vision that allows him to effectively penetrate through defenders.

One of Guice’s best plays in 2017 was his 48-yard run against Ole Miss on Oct. 21:

NFL.com compared Guice to Raiders RB Marshawn Lynch, which is quite the high praise considering Lynch’s successful career. Similar to Lynch, Guice runs with ferocity and eludes defenders well.

While he still needs improvements in catching and pass protection, Guice has the overall talents to start in the pros. With Guice’s excellent running abilities and athleticism, it is highly likely he will be drafted in the first round.