How does Ryan Grubb envision the running back room for Alabama football in 2025?

The Alabama Crimson Tide football program, one of the most storied and successful teams in college football history, consistently boasts an elite roster of talent. One of the key positions that have always played a crucial role in Alabama’s offensive success is the running back position. As Alabama looks ahead to the 2025 season, new offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb has a clear vision for how he wants to use the running back room to maximize the team’s potential.

Ryan Grubb, who was hired to replace Bill O’Brien as the offensive coordinator, is no stranger to high-powered offenses. His prior success at Washington, where he helped develop an explosive offense with dynamic playmakers, has given him a reputation for designing schemes that prioritize both the run and pass, keeping opposing defenses on their heels. As he looks to shape Alabama’s offense for the 2025 season, much of his strategy hinges on how he utilizes the running backs in his scheme, especially considering the team’s deep pool of talent at the position.

In this article, we will break down Ryan Grubb’s vision for Alabama’s running back room in 2025, exploring his offensive philosophy, key players, how he plans to balance the running game with Alabama’s aerial attack, and what the future of the program’s backfield may look like.

Ryan Grubb’s Offensive Philosophy

Before delving into how Ryan Grubb envisions Alabama’s running back room in 2025, it’s important to first understand his offensive philosophy. Grubb has built a reputation for developing balanced offenses, ensuring that the run and pass complement each other to keep defenses guessing. His schemes are designed to be dynamic, using both the power running game and the spread passing game to create mismatches on the field.

At Washington, Grubb’s offenses featured a strong commitment to the running game, often leaning on a workhorse back while also incorporating spread concepts that allowed quarterbacks to use quick throws, screens, and intermediate routes to keep the defense off-balance. In his vision for Alabama’s offense, Grubb will likely look to blend the power-run game for which Alabama is known with some of the up-tempo and pass-oriented schemes he utilized at Washington. This will provide the Crimson Tide with a multifaceted attack, where the running back room plays a pivotal role.

The 2025 Alabama offense, under Grubb’s direction, will likely see a commitment to balance between the running game and the passing attack, with running backs being key contributors in both phases. Whether it’s breaking off big runs, catching passes out of the backfield, or providing protection for the quarterback, the running backs will be expected to be versatile and reliable in all facets of the offense.

The Role of the Running Backs in Grubb’s Offense

In Grubb’s system, the running back position will not be just about traditional running plays; it will involve a much more dynamic and fluid role. The running back room in 2025 will be tasked with a variety of duties that go beyond simply rushing between the tackles. Here’s how Grubb is likely to use the running back position:

1. Workhorse and Rotation System

One of the most crucial aspects of Grubb’s offense is his ability to utilize a “workhorse” running back while also incorporating depth into the backfield. While Alabama has often relied on one featured back in recent years, Grubb’s system will likely demand more versatility and depth. Alabama’s running back room in 2025 will likely be a mixture of a primary back who gets a bulk of the carries and a secondary backfield by committee, ensuring fresh legs throughout the game.

The primary running back, who could be a powerful, downhill runner with excellent vision and strength, will handle the bulk of the rushing attempts. This player will need to excel in short-yardage situations, provide balance to the offense with tough runs between the tackles, and be able to break off explosive runs when the opportunity arises.

However, Grubb is also known for rotating in a stable of backs to keep the offense fresh and create mismatches. He has shown a preference for having multiple running backs on the field, allowing each player to contribute in specific situations, whether it be for passing downs, red-zone opportunities, or late-game situations. Grubb’s ability to rotate players without losing a step will be crucial for maintaining a high level of performance throughout the course of a game.

2. Pass Catching and Versatility

Alabama’s running backs under Grubb will be expected to play a more dynamic role in the passing game. Running backs will be utilized not only for traditional running but also as pass-catchers out of the backfield. This approach is especially important for Alabama in 2025, as the team may look to balance the power-running game with a more versatile aerial attack.

In Grubb’s offense, the running back position will often be a release valve for the quarterback. Grubb has shown a preference for running backs who can make plays in space—catching screen passes, running option routes, and being used in quick-hit passing schemes that exploit mismatches. Running backs who can stretch the field and catch passes out of the backfield will be vital, allowing the offense to stay unpredictable and prevent defenses from loading the box to stop the run.

This system benefits not only the running backs but also the quarterback. By having reliable options out of the backfield, the quarterback can utilize checkdowns or quick passes to keep the chains moving. The running backs will need to demonstrate strong route-running ability, reliable hands, and the ability to make plays after the catch.

3. Red-Zone and Goal-Line Situations

The running back position will also play a critical role in the red zone and goal-line situations. While Grubb’s offense will likely be diverse, it’s still essential to have a running back who can move the ball effectively in short-yardage situations and punch it into the end zone. Whether it’s a power back who can take the ball and push through defenders or a back with quickness and agility to evade tacklers, the running back room will need to be ready for crucial plays in critical moments.

Grubb will likely use his primary running back for the majority of goal-line situations, but expect other backs to be rotated in for specific situations, such as passing downs or as change-of-pace backs. Alabama’s ability to finish drives and score touchdowns in the red zone will depend heavily on how effectively the running back room performs in these high-pressure moments.

4. Pass Protection

One aspect that often goes underappreciated is a running back’s ability to protect the quarterback in pass protection. In Grubb’s offense, running backs will need to be capable blockers to pick up blitzes and provide protection for the quarterback, especially in passing situations. A strong running back who can pick up blitzes and protect the pocket will be invaluable in keeping the offense on schedule and avoiding negative plays.

This is an area where Grubb’s system will demand versatility. While it’s not always the most glamorous part of a running back’s job, it’s essential for keeping the offense flowing smoothly. Alabama’s running backs will need to show their ability to recognize blitzes, communicate with the offensive line, and provide solid protection in passing situations.

Key Players in the Running Back Room for 2025

Looking ahead to 2025, Alabama has several key players in the running back room who will be vying for a significant role in Grubb’s offense. Here are some of the potential candidates to watch:

1. Jamarion Miller

Jamarion Miller, a highly touted prospect, is expected to be one of the key players in Alabama’s backfield in 2025. Miller has already shown flashes of brilliance, demonstrating a powerful running style, excellent vision, and the ability to break tackles. With a season or two of experience under his belt, Miller will likely be positioned as the primary ball-carrier in Grubb’s offense. His ability to run between the tackles, combined with his agility and vision, makes him an ideal candidate for the workhorse role.

2. Richard Young

Richard Young, another highly rated recruit, will likely compete for playing time in 2025. Known for his speed and burst, Young is a dynamic back who can make an impact in both the running and passing games. His ability to create explosive plays will give Grubb the flexibility to use him as a change-of-pace back, especially in passing situations. With his potential as a dual-threat back, Young could be a key player in Alabama’s balanced offensive attack.

3. Jase McClellan

Jase McClellan, who has been a reliable contributor for Alabama in recent seasons, will likely have an important role in 2025. McClellan’s ability to contribute both as a rusher and a receiver out of the backfield gives Grubb options for utilizing him in multiple ways. His experience and all-around skill set will make him a valuable asset in pass protection, screen passes, and short-yardage situations.

A Balanced, Dynamic Future for Alabama’s Running Back Room

Ryan Grubb’s vision for the running back room in 2025 reflects a commitment to balance, versatility, and unpredictability. With a focus on both the power running game and using running backs in the passing game, Grubb aims to create an offense that can attack defenses in multiple ways. The running backs will need to be well-rounded, able to contribute as both ball-carriers and pass-catchers, and provide crucial protection for the quarterback.

Alabama’s running back room, with talented players like Jamarion Miller, Richard Young, and Jase McClellan, is well-equipped to meet these demands. Under Grubb’s guidance, the backfield will be a key part of Alabama’s offensive success, with each player contributing to a balanced, high-octane attack. As Alabama moves into the 2025 season, the running back position will play a central role in the team’s quest for another SEC title and a potential national championship.