Image Credit: USA Today
Final 2012 Statistics: 36 carries, 92 yards, 2.6 YPC, 0 TDs; 3 catches, 16 yards, 5.3 YPC, 0 TDs
Albert Reid didn’t play a huge role last season, but was a definite factor in the running game. He saw most of his playing time in the season opener against William & Mary, rushing 12 times for 29 yards and recording all 3 of his catches on the season. He failed to break out as a true freshman, but is looking to have a big sophomore year with the Terps.
Reid was a 4-star recruit out of Friendship Collegiate Academy in 2012. ESPN described him as an athlete with good versatility, speed, and playmaking abilities. Of the three running backs in the 2013 competition, Reid is the best pass-catcher. He is also the fastest back in the competition right now, and showed glimpses of that speed last season. But he has spent a lot of time in the weight room in the offseason, and showed his new muscle in the Red-White Spring Game.
Reid shone in that spring game, rushing for over 100 yards for the Red team. He had multiple occasions where he blasted through the line of scrimmage and dragged defenders an extra 10 yards or so downfield. It was very impressive to see the new strength that he put on in the offseason, and it seems like he is much more comfortable on the field.
Mike Locksley’s offense is built on running the football, so having a wide variety of running backs is key. Albert Reid is simply another piece to that puzzle, a speed back with good strength who can also be a threat in the passing game. He may not be the best blocker of the bunch, but has other traits that make him very valuable. His added strength this season should help him see the field more, and will make this competition very interesting. Expect Reid to see a lot of time on the field on 3rd-down situations this season. He is also a good back to run the read-option with, as he can burst around the outside of the line or stay inside and muscle his way into the line. That read-option will be a big play this season with the speedy C.J. Brown at quarterback, so finding a running back to compliment that play will be key. Albert Reid can definitely be that back.
Terps Analyst
Zack is a financial analyst for a defense contractor in Washington, DC. The Owings Mills native focuses most of his efforts on Maryland Football recruiting and individual coach and player pieces; but also covers Terps Basketball. He has established relationships with Big Ten beat reporters across the conference, which he utilizes in his game previews. Now a Sr. Terps Analyst for BSL, Zack can be reached at: zack.kiesel@baltimoresportsandlife.com.