Spring football practice is winding down at the University of Wyoming with only three left over the next week, including the annual Spring Game.

One position that has been hit hard by injuries is running back. Last season’s two leading ball carriers, junior Kellen Overstreet and sophomore Trey Woods, are both currently out with shoulder injuries. Other back-ups, like redshirt freshmen Xazavian Valladay, sophomore Jerad Swan and junior Garrett Gardner are also not active due to injury. Junior Milo Hall chose to move to wide receiver over the off-season. That has left Evans and sophomore Mike Green II as the only two healthy ball carriers.

Senior Nico Evans, who became Wyoming’s primary back on third down last season, spoke recently with KOWB’s David Settle. They discussed a scrimmage, picking things up in the ground game offensively, the competition at running back and so much more.

Running backs coach Gordie Haug said his main goal this spring was competition.

“We’re not going to name a starter right now. Every single day you’re going to get graded and coached extremely hard, and be able to evaluate these guys. Really it was a message of competition and being able to work for earning a spot to play, so that was kind of my deal.”

Haug went on to say these guys still need to gain weight, speed and acceleration. He also wants his group to be more creative runners. Haug says the summer will be important for the running backs.

Wyoming is looking to improve a run game that finished 117th in the nation last year and averaged only 108.8 yards per game.

Both head coach Craig Bohl and offensive coordinator Brent Vigen have addressed that topic by saying it’s not all on the running backs. They’re looking for better blocking from the offensive line, tight ends, fullbacks and wide receivers, as well.

The Cowboys return to the practice field Tuesday with their 13th session. The Spring Game is Saturday, April 21 at 2 p.m. in War Memorial Stadium.

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