:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/27432189/20140103_kkt_bm1_269.0.jpg)
Looking for a player who will instantly upgrade the running back position for the New York Giants? I think I found the answer and it comes in the form of a human/monster hybrid called Carlos Hyde from Ohio State. He was suspended for three games to start the year and still came up with 1,521 yards rushing and 18 total touchdowns. He is this year's Eddie Lacy and among the new breed of ultra-balanced, hard to knock over running backs.
Pros
- Strong balance. Center of gravity is low and he rarely gets knocked over.
- Insanely strong lower body. Can take blow after blow and will not yield.
- Punishing runner. Breaks tackles with regularity and finishes run with brutal hits.
- Lateral agility is a plus for his compact 6-foot, 235-pound frame.
- Initial burst is very good.
- Stamina is incredible. Went over 24 rush attempts five times this season.
- Excels as a pass protector.
- Patience. Takes the correct holes and his vision is superb.
Cons
- Not a natural pass catcher out of the backfield.
- Sometimes stays too upright. Issue for him is that he doesn't always fall forward.
- A lot of mileage on him before he even starts a game as a rookie.
- Mild character concerns.
Does He Fit With The Giants?
Yes, absolutely. In a league that's gotten blown by runners like Eddie Lacy, Marshawn Lynch, and Zac Stacy, having a bruising, powerful, knock 'em out, punch 'em out type runner is a big advantage to teams that operate in cold weather where throwing the ball may not always be the best option. We have not had such a runner since the vintage days of Brandon Jacobs. It wears teams down for the finishing blow.
Prospect Video
#34 Carlos Hyde, RB, Ohio St vs Illinois '13 (via SportCutups)
Big Board Rankings
Big Blue View - 42
Mocking The Draft - 58
CBS Sports - 54
Draft Countdown - 93
Draft Tek - 69
Final Thoughts
Carlos Hyde is my favorite running back with this class, and certainly in the conversation along with guys like Ka'deem Carey and Lache Seastrunk as the best available. Is he worth it in the second round? I think so if you feel like you've got the offensive line squared away via free agency and the first round. I think Hyde and Wilson could complement each other perfectly to create a new, more successful era of "Thunder and Lightning."