Corum and Edwards named top 10 returning running backs in 2023

On Wednesday, Pro Football Focus (PFF) released their top 10 returning running backs of 2023. On its list are four Big Ten backs — one from Ohio State, one from Penn State, and two from Michigan. Blake Corum and Donovan Edwards — the Wolverines’ elite one-two punch — are listed at No. 1 and No. 9 on PFF’s list.

Top 10 returning Running Backs in College Football for the 2023 season, via @Chad_Maxwick pic.twitter.com/EYg1bTIv3B

— PFF College (@PFF_College) February 1, 2023

Blake Corum returns to Michigan after elite 2022 season

A season ago, Blake Corum established himself as the best running back in the nation. Heading into 2023, national media and the Wolverines have high hopes for Michigan’s star back this fall.

Corum was ranked the No. 1 returning running back by Pro Football Focus — he also has the best odds of any non-quarterback to win the 2023 Heisman Trophy. Last fall, Corum was in (and perhaps led) the Heisman race until suffering a knee injury in the Wolverines’ 19-17 victory over Illinois.

Corum saw limited snaps the rest of the season and was eventually sidelined after having surgery. Early in the offseason, Corum announced that he would forego the 2023 NFL Draft and return to Michigan for his senior season. This fall, Michigan’s elite running back will look to bring home Michigan’s first Heisman Trophy and National title since 1997.

Donovan Edwards could be the best skill player in America

Along with rising senior Blake Corum is rising junior Donovan Edwards, another of the Wolverines’ top players. A year ago, Edwards showed the potential to become the next great running back in the Maize and Blue. He and Corum are returning to lead Michigan’s offense to the promised land.

Ewards is more than just a running back; he’s a multipurpose tool like no other in the Big Ten. Edwards is a top-3 pass-catcher on Michigan’s roster. He is a threat as a receiver in the short, medium, and even the deep ball game. Additionally, when asked to take over as RB1 when Corum was sidelined with an injury, Edwards ran for over 200 yards against Ohio State and 185 yards in the Big Ten title game against Purdue.

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