Hold onto your helmets, because the race for the Doak Walker Award is heating up! Last season, Boise State’s Ashton Jeanty set the bar sky-high with his record-breaking performance, but this year’s contenders are proving that the running back position is anything but predictable. And here’s where it gets interesting: FOX Sports’ Joel Klatt has unveiled his midseason top five picks, and the list is packed with surprises, controversies, and a few names you might not expect. But before we dive in, let’s address the elephant in the room: Can anyone truly dominate like Jeanty did last year? The answer, so far, is no. But that doesn’t mean this season’s running backs aren’t worth watching—far from it. Let’s break down Klatt’s selections and explore why they’ve earned their spots, even if some choices might spark debate.
WINNER: Ahmad Hardy, Missouri
With 115 carries for 782 yards and 9 touchdowns, Ahmad Hardy has been nothing short of sensational in his first season at Missouri. His streak of five consecutive 100-yard games was impressive, though it came to a halt against Alabama. But here’s where it gets controversial: Klatt waffled on whether Hardy’s performance against the Crimson Tide should disqualify him from the top spot. Ultimately, he crowned Hardy as his pick for the Doak Walker Award, citing his ability to balance Missouri’s offense alongside quarterback Beau Pribula. Is Hardy truly the best, or did Klatt overlook a crucial flaw? Let us know in the comments.
Justice Haynes, Michigan
Haynes mirrors Hardy’s early-season success with five straight 100-yard games, though he, too, stumbled in his most recent outing. His big-play ability—five runs of over 40 yards—has made him a standout for Michigan. Klatt praises Haynes as one of the five best backs in college football, but here’s the part most people miss: Haynes’ injury against USC could be a bigger setback than Klatt acknowledges. Will it cost him the award? Only time will tell.
Waymond Jordan, USC
Jordan’s stats might not jump off the page, but his impact on USC’s offense was undeniable—until injury sidelined him. Klatt included Jordan on his midseason list, but this is where it gets tricky: With Jordan out for four to six weeks, his chances of winning the Doak Walker Award are slim. Still, Klatt’s decision to include him sparks a question: Should injured players still be considered for midseason awards? Share your thoughts below.
Jeremiyah Love, Notre Dame
Love isn’t just a running back—he’s a dual threat. With 530 rushing yards, 8 touchdowns, and significant contributions in the passing game, he’s been instrumental in Notre Dame’s playoff resurgence. Klatt highlights Love’s dominance, but here’s the counterpoint: Is his all-around talent enough to overshadow pure rushing stats? Love’s inclusion invites a broader debate about what truly defines a top running back.
Jonah Coleman, Washington
Coleman rounds out Klatt’s top five with 518 rushing yards, 11 touchdowns, and a standout receiving game. His versatility makes Washington’s offense unpredictable, and Klatt calls him “electric.” But here’s the bold question: Is Coleman’s lack of national attention hurting his award chances? Klatt thinks he’s underrated, but do you agree? Let’s discuss.
As the season unfolds, these running backs will continue to battle for the Doak Walker Award. Klatt’s picks are bold, but they’re not without controversy. Who do you think deserves the top spot? And which player did Klatt overlook? Drop your take in the comments—this debate is just getting started!
