Nick Saban Says Texas Had ‘Best Running Back He Saw’ Last Season

 

In last season’s standout 34-24 road victory over Alabama, the Texas Longhorns gained a commanding lead with a five-yard rushing touchdown from Jonathon Brooks and maintained control throughout the game. Although Brooks was selected in the second round of the NFL Draft this past April, it was another Texas running back who captured the attention of former Alabama coach Nick Saban during that matchup and beyond.

During an interview with Texas coach Steve Sarkisian on SEC Now at SEC Media Days, Saban revealed that he considered Texas running back CJ Baxter to be the top player at his position in college football last season. Saban praised Baxter’s performance, acknowledging the talent and depth in Texas’ roster, including their wide receivers and quarterbacks. He remarked that despite the strength of Texas’ other positions, Baxter stood out as the premier running back he had observed.

When Texas faced Alabama in Week 2, Baxter contributed with 11 carries for 31 yards and four receptions for 21 yards. This performance was notable given that Baxter was not fully healthy, having been sidelined briefly after an injury sustained in the season opener against Rice. Baxter missed the subsequent game against Wyoming but played a crucial role throughout the remainder of his freshman season.

Following Brooks’ season-ending ACL injury during the win over TCU, Baxter, along with Jaydon Blue, formed a formidable running back duo. Their combined efforts were instrumental in leading the Longhorns to both the Big 12 Championship and the College Football Playoff.

Baxter concluded his inaugural season at Texas with impressive stats: 138 carries for 659 yards and five touchdowns, plus 24 receptions totaling 156 yards. As the new season approaches, Texas is set to start on Saturday, August 31, with a home game against Colorado State, looking to build on the momentum from last year.