Football Preview: The Top 10 running backs

Providence’s Richie Warfield and Nazareth’s Ivory Kelly-Martin both won state titles last season and much is expected of them this season. But Glenbard West’s Sam Brodner gets the nod as the area’s top running back.

1. Sam Brodner, Glenbard West, Senior

The Hilltoppers advanced to the state semifinals last season, and much of that was thanks to the efforts of Brodner. He racked up nearly 2000 yards and scored 27 touchdowns, really coming into his own the second half of the season. Brodner has a high football I.Q. and sees holes well. The 5-11, 210-pound back committed to Vanderbilt in the offseason.

2. Liam Morrissey, Lincoln-Way East, Senior

One of the area’s best rushers as a junior, Morrissey amassed more than 1,500 yards and scored 26 touchdowns to help propel his team to the state quarterfinals. At 6-1, 200-pounds Morrissey is a solid force that should pick up where he left off last season.

3. Deante Harley-Hampton, Homewood-Flossmoor, Senior

The Harley-Hampton twins are more like spots 3A and 3B on this list. They are both electric, productive players that helped lead the Vikings to the state championship game. Deante recorded 22 touchdowns last season and 1,600 yards in a season that put the 5-7, 175-pound prospect on the map.

4. Devonte Harley-Hampton, Homewood-Flossmoor, Senior

The second half of the explosive pair, Devonte stands 5-9, 170-pounds and recorded more than 1,000 yards last season. Devonte scored 19 touchdowns. The Vikings’ offense should be one of the state’s most potent this season.

5. Richie Warfield, Providence, Junior

To cap off his sophomore year Warfield led the Celtics to a state championship and scored four touchdowns in the title game. He’s a sturdy, athletic back that knows how to make plays and will be expected to take an even bigger role in the offense this season.

6. Ivory Kelly-Martin, Nazareth, Junior

Kelly-Martin returned from a leg injury at the end of last season and helped the Roadrunners take home the Class 6A state title. He is sure to be a featured part of the offense and with his elusive speed and added strength he’s one of the area’s best.

7. Darius Crump, Warren, Senior

Crump returns after a junior season where he ran for 1,670 yards and 13 touchdowns. Crump’s greatest asset is his speed and at 5-8 he’s hard to catch. He flew under the radar a bit as a junior, but as a senior he is expected to stand out.

8. Barrington Wade, Niles North, Senior

Wade committed to Iowa during the offseason and impressed on the camp circuit. The 6-1, 211-pound back has a high ceiling and a great frame.

9. Ben Klett, Lake Zurich, Senior

An athlete with good size, Klett measures in at 6-1, 200-pounds and has played on varsity since his freshman season. A two-year starter, Klett also excels in the 100 meter dash in track. Klett scored 13 touchdowns last season.

10. Kamal Bey, Oak Park-River Forest, Senior

Bey showed flashes of brilliance last season and returns on a team that shows promise. He’s an athlete that could be a surprise to many people if he continues to improve. Bey is also a standout wrestler for the Huskies.

Check out the area’s Top 10 quarterbacks and Top 10 receivers.