SEC RBs with a chance to set single-season rushing records

There are a lot of great running backs who are counting down the days to September, ready to get back to work and etch their names into the record books.

There’s a good chance the eraser might need to be broken out when it comes to guys breaking single-season rushing records this year. There are three backs – at least – who could reach legendary status this year.

Here are the record-holders for each school:

The three with the best chances are Leonard Fournette of LSU, who is chasing his own record; Jalen Hurd at Tennessee and Ralph Webb and Vanderbilt. Let’s take a look at their chances:

Leonard Fournette, LSU

Reason he’ll do it: Because he is simply the best back in America. He proved that early last year when he peeled off seven straight 150-yard games and seemed like a sure bet for the Heisman Trophy. He finished with 1,953 yards in 12 games and Tigers fans are expecting more of the same this year, plus a few extra games (SEC Championship Game, playoffs) to pad that total.

Reason he won’t: It’s asking too much for a back to go over 1,900 in consecutive years. Until Brandon Harris can prove that he can throw the ball downfield on a consistent basic, LSU is going to see eight- and nine-man boxes every game.

The bet: He won’t do it, but he’ll come close. It’s still hard to see LSU winning the SEC West, which takes a game or two off his schedule. There’s also the injury factor. Can he stay healthy for another full season? Bumps and bruises are expected with a heavy work load.

Jalen Hurd, Tennessee

Reason he’ll do it: Hurd has worked hard the entire offseason to be better at breaking tackles in the second level. He’ll have more long runs in 2016, which will help pad that rushing total. Hurd gained 1,288 yards last year and should top that during what likely will be a special UT season.

Reason he won’t: Hurd will give way to Alvin Kamara quite a bit, simply because Kamara is the best No. 2 back in the league and a legitimate threat himself. Trying to get to Travis Stephens’ total of 1,464 might be asking too much.

The bet: He’ll get there. Hurd missed out by only 176 yards last year and with a few longer runs and a potential SEC Championship game, he’ll get to about 1,600 yards this year.

Ralph Webb, Vanderbilt

Reason he’ll do it: Because the bar is set low on this school rushing record. Zac Stacy holds the mark with just 1,193 yards and Webb can get there easily. He came close last year at 1,152 and he’ll be much better this year, as will the Vandy offense.

Reason he won’t: Other than the possibility of an injury, I’ve got nothing.

The bet: Look for Webb to go for at least 1,300 and break the record easily. He’s a heck of a back and the offense will be more productive.