Michigan football running back is thrilled about the Wolverines’ two-back system

Running backs have a shelf life in college and in the NFL. The position is tough, subjecting players to frequent hits, which often leads to injuries and shorter careers. Currently, Michigan football boasts two running backs with the potential to be NFL Draft picks, accompanied by several talented backs behind them — they are all eager to make an impact and contribute to the Wolverines’ quest for a national title in 2023. Donovan Edwards, in particular, appreciates Michigan’s two-back system as it minimizes his “mileage” prior to his transition to the NFL.

Michigan football running back loves ‘two-back’ offensive set alongside Blake Corum

A season ago, Michigan football running back Donovan Edwards took over and shined brighter than expected when Blake Corum went out with an injury in Week 12. Against Ohio State, Edwards compiled over 200 yards and scored a series of essential touchdowns. He repeated his impressive performance in the Big Ten title game the following weekend, rushing for 185 yards and contributing to the Wolverines’ second-straight blowout win in the championship game.

However, as the 2023 season approaches, Edwards is glad that the workload for the Michigan football backfield will be divided.

“For one, I’ve always wanted to go into a college where it is [a two-back system],” Edwards said in a recent interview. “When I go into the NFL, I don’t want to have like a lot of mileage or a lot of bangs and bruises on my body.”

While the Wolverines have a ton of super-talented running backs, including standout freshmen like Benjamin Hall, the Michigan football running back room is regaining an essential factor: Heisman Trophy contender Blake Corum, who helped lead the way for the Maize and Blue offense in 2022.

“Having Blake back, it’s amazing because he’s a fantastic leader on the team. We sit together in the film room, we’re really good friends, it’s a lot of love between me and him. We really complement each other and I love playing with him. It’s no jealousy, no egos. Just let’s go win.”

Healthy running backs will be a massive step in the right direction for the Maize and Blue

Having more backs to split up the workload will be significant for Michigan football heading into the 2023 campaign. As seen last year, too many carries may result in injuries. Edwards and Corum both played through injuries last season, something the Maize and Blue are aiming to avoid in the coming months.

Having Donovan Edwards and Blake Corum, not to mention the other backs, back at full strength will be a crucial factor in the Wolverines’ expectations for a College Football Playoff-caliber season.

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