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When Barry Sanders Jr. committed to Stanford, it was assumed the Cardinal had a future star on their hands. Unfortunately, it hasn’t exactly panned out that way.
Since coming down to the Farm, Sanders has struggled mightily to live up to his father’s lofty legacy. Despite appearing to possess similar shiftiness and instincts in the open field, the running back has failed to make a significant impact for the Cardinal.
Heading into his senior season, Sanders has amassed only 357 rushing yards and one touchdown on 64 carries throughout his collegiate career. Last season was assumed to be his coming-out party, but instead only saw him earn limited touches as part of Stanford’s running-back-by-committee approach.
When all was said and done, he had finished third in rushing yards behind Remound Wright and Kelsey Young.
It’s true that Sanders has waited his turn among a group of very talented backs, but he’s clearly the top dog in terms of natural ability. With the explosiveness and shiftiness to turn every touch into six points, it’s certainly concerning he hasn’t asserted himself as the man among boys he’s capable of being.
Now Sanders heads into the 2015 campaign looking at what may very well be his last opportunity to prove he can be any bit of the running back his father was. While I’m sure he’s tired of the comparisons and expectations, Sanders simply can’t continue to let his hereditary talent go to waste – especially if the Cardinal hope to compete for a National Championship this upcoming season.
Over the years, Stanford has asserted itself as a dominant running team with the ability to pound opponents into submission. From Toby Gerhart to Stepfan Taylor to Tyler Gaffney, the Cardinal have enjoyed the ability to move the football on the ground with ease. Will Sanders step up and become a part of that tradition, or prove that he was nothing more than hype?
The 2015 season is a fork in the road for Sanders. Only time will tell which path he chooses to follow.
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