By now the blueprint for Oregon running backs is clear and well-established.
If fans look at the runners who've risen to the top of the depth chart in the Dan Lanning era, they have three things in common: toughness, explosiveness and versatility.
Though they differed a bit in style and size, Bucky Irving, Jordan James and Dierre Hill all displayed those essential traits. Hill is so dynamic that he's emerged at the top of the depth chart as a true freshman five games after stepping on campus. He won the job in a single fall camp.
As a recruit Hill was highly regarded but not a superstar.