We continue our list of five predictions for the second half of Stanford's spring practice.
No. 2: Running back competition will gain clarity
Through the first session of spring practice, there was no clear separation between the running backs. While that made it logical to project a by-committee approach in the fall, there is undoubtedly some separation on its way.
Where that separation will come remains the question.
None of the four candidates -- Remound Wright, Barry Sanders, Kelsey Young and Ricky Seale -- have the look of a true No. 1 back. Although, there is the hope that Sanders, the youngest and most-lauded recruit, could eventually develop into one.
Wright is the best bet to get the most carries and, perhaps more important, snaps among the group. Coach David Shaw labeled him the best in pass protection which will be a major factor in divvying up playing time. He just can't be the pass protection guy, though. Stanford needs to make sure whoever its best blocker is gets plenty of touches.
When Shaw talks about the position, he always has praise for Seale, but it's difficult to gauge just how big a role the fifth-year senior will have. He's been behind some talented backs in Stepfan Taylor, Tyler Gaffney and Anthony Wilkerson, but the fact that he's seen such little playing time over an extended period of time -- 30 carries in three years -- is reason to question how much of an impact he will make.
With the staff fairly tight-lipped about any unofficial depth chart, we'll go ahead and project the order at the end of spring practice will be Wright, Young, Sanders, Seale.
It makes for interesting discussion, but don't put too much stock in that order. It's still a very fluid situation.
Countdown
No. 3: Hogan takes the next step
