The top three rushers in the Big 12 entering Week 5

In what used to be an Air Raid league under head coaches like Mike Leach, the Big 12 has taken the last several years to become far more grounded. The rushing attack is at the forefront of a successful league offense. 

Heading into Week 5, which rushers have stood out from the pack?

1. RJ Harvey, UCF

At 3-0, UCF is undefeated right now along with only two other Big 12 teams, and much of that is due to senior RJ Harvey’s highly productive running attack. 

To this point, Harvey has gained 448 yards across 59 carries. On average, that’s 7.6 yards per attempt. Better still, that’s well on track to surpass his 2023 total of 1,416 yards rushing for the season. 

UCF is becoming a dominant force in the Big 12 on the ground this season, with only half of the play-calling involving handoffs. The Knights are also formidable through the air, having accumulated a total of 563 yards, which also helps the rushing attack to be successful.

2. Devin Neal, Kansas

Kansas is hardly off to the electric start this now-devoted fanbase was hoping for in 2024. This was going to be the year all the pieces clicked. 

While it might have lost three of its first four contests, that was not the fault of the rushing attack. Neal has been a consistent production source, reaching over 100 yards each game on the ground, even last week against one of the nation’s best rush defenses in West Virginia. 

Neal is a force to be reckoned with in the backfield, having gained 443 yards for the season. At this stage, the senior is the 12th top rusher in the country.

3. Cam Skattebo, Arizona State

Arizona State is off to an exhilarating start to the season, having fared better in its first four matchups than anticipated. 

Much like West Virginia in 2023, Arizona State was picked to finish at the bottom of the conference. Much of its early-season success has been linked to the rushing attack, particularly Skattebo, the 14th top rusher in the country in total yardage (433).

Even in last week’s loss to Texas Tech, Skattebo was critical in launching the potential comeback with two touchdowns. Head coach Kenny Dillingham has spoken highly of the senior since the start of season, saying (via Arizona Sports), “That’s a guy, he had a great year last year, but he didn’t even — I mean, he’s a different player. This Cam has the potential to play on Sundays. Last year’s Cam did not.”