2015 Big 12 Position Rankings – Running Backs

No. 1: Oklahoma

Dec 29, 2014; Orlando, FL, USA; Oklahoma Sooners quarterback Trevor Knight (9) hands off the ball to running back Samaje Perine (32) during the first quarter of the 2014 Russell Athletic Bowl against the Clemson Tigers at Florida Citrus Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Joshua S. Kelly-USA TODAY Sports

There is no question OU leads the conference here. Samaje “Optimus” Perine upstaged Melvin Gordon and reset the FBS single-game rushing record just seven days after Gordon had accomplished the feat on November 15. What’s more, Bob Stoops may have two of the top three running backs in the conference at his disposal — without mentioning Joe Mixon who has recently rejoined the team after a season-long suspension. OU will have some of the best balance at running back, with a great combination of size, speed, and strength. The only negative here is that Keith Ford has been suspended indefinitely from the team. And although he had the lowest rushing average of the three backs in 2014, you can never have too many great athletes.