WVMetroNews · Oct 12, 2016
No debate on running backs: West Virginia needs both Shell, Crawford
COMMENTARY
MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — Rushel Shell’s third-quarter fumble at Kansas State’s 2-yard line became his final carry of the day. It also heightened calls for Justin Crawford to become West Virginia’s starting running back.
That’s essentially a pointless argument.
Shell and Crawford form a symbiotic platoon, and who takes the field on the opening series isn’t so consequential as who factors into the offense during crucial situations.
Through four games, Crawford shows better numbers. He’s fifth in the Big 12 at 82.8 rushing yards per game and 5.5 per carry, compared to Shell’s 61 per game and 4.8 per attempt.