Football: A Closer Look at the Running Backs
8/29/2000 12:00:00 PM | Football
"Chester's potential is unlimited," said Pinkel. "He has tremendous breakaway speed. He's an impact player. And what's even better, he has two exceptional backs behind him, William Bratton and Antwon McCray."
Taylor was brilliant in 1999, gaining 1,176 yards and averaging 6.5 yards per carry, the second-best average in the nation, despite playing most of the season with sprains to both ankles. But as impressive as Taylor's performance was in 1999, what may have been even more remarkable is how well the running game flourished in his absence.
With Taylor missing most of three games and parts of three others, the running game hardly missed a beat, especially toward the end of the season. Bratton, a rugged, straight-ahead runner, gained 486 yards and scored four touchdowns as part of the regular rotation last year. McCray played mostly when Taylor was hurt, and gained 424 yards on 5.9 yards per carry.
Still, Pinkel is counting on Taylor to lead the way in 2000. And to do that, he must stay on the field.
"Chester has to stay healthy," said Pinkel. "You will never be considered a great running back unless you stay healthy."
Taylor took steps in the off-season toward achieving that goal by undergoing a new medical procedure on his ankles. The treatment is called "prolotherapy," and works by injecting calcium glutenate or other fluids into the ankle ligaments to make them stronger.
Taylor played during spring ball and appeared to be in top condition. "Chester had an excellent spring. He didn't miss a beat," said Pinkel. "He didn't have much chance to work out in January, February and March, but it didn't take him long to get back in shape."
