Ad Disclosure
Rudy Ford has returned to running back — at least for now.
Auburn coach Gus Malzahn confirmed the switch during a Tuesday press conference. Offensive coordinator Rhett Lashlee said Sunday the coaching staff was considering moving Ford, a converted defensive back who began his career as a running back, to his original position.
Rudy Ford has gotten reps at RB, Malzahn said. Kam Martin could be a lead guy, and Malik Miller (knee) is practicing again.
— AUBlog (@AUBlog) November 15, 2016
Coaches made the temporary switch to shore up a backfield currently ravaged by injuries.
Malzahn said star running back Kamryn Pettway, the SEC’s leading rusher, will be out Saturday against Alabama A&M. Kerryon Johnson played through injury against Georgia last weekend, while reserves Stanton Truitt and Chandler Cox both sustained injuries in that game.
True freshman Kam Martin figures to be the feature back, while classmate Malik Miller is back at practice after requiring knee surgery in early October.
But Ford’s addition to the backfield will help patch up a gaping hole in the Tigers’ roster for the time being.
Marcus covers SEC football for Saturday Down South.
