Yesterday we talked about one of the best running backs in the Big Ten so today we are going to look at one of the best running backs in the SEC. Jahmyr Gibbs transferred to Alabama via Georgia Tech after the completion of the 2021 season. Gibb was one of the most underrated players in the country mainly because of the overall team performance. Georgia Tech was an abysmal 3-9 last season with one of their wins coming against an FCS opponent. Gibbs decided to transfer to Alabama where he has an opportunity to become a household name with his talent. With only eight days left until college football, 99 Things will focus on Alabama running back Jahmyr Gibbs.
Hailing from Georgia, Gibbs originally ranked as the 76th ranked player in the country for the 2020 class. He also ranked as the eighth best running back in the country behind players such as Bijan Robinson, Tank Bigsby and Zach Evans. Gibbs committed in May before the start of his senior season. His recruitment began to blow up around the start of the football season. Gibbs took visits to Ohio State, Alabama, Florida, Florida State and LSU. He made official and unofficial visits to Alabama, LSU and Ohio State between the fall and winter before signing day. Gibbs took an official visit to Georgia Tech on January 31st before signing his letter of intent on February 5th.
The first season for Gibbs was the Covid year so he did not enroll until July. His first game was against UCF where he totaled 212 all-purpose yards and two touchdowns. Gibbs was named ACC Freshman of the week for his performance. He would play in seven games rushing for a total of 460 yards and four touchdowns. He was the second leading rushing behind starting quarterback, Jeff Sims. Gibbs also finished second on the team in receiving with 24 receptions for 303 receiving yards and three touchdowns. As just a true freshman he was already becoming one of the best players on the Georgia Tech roster. He was named a second team freshman All-American for his performance.
The sophomore season for Gibbs noticed his take his game up a notch. He played in all 12 games for the Yellow Jackets and was their best offensive skill player. Gibbs was the leading rusher for Georgia Tech finishing the season with 746 rushing yards and four touchdowns. He was also third on the team in receptions and receiving yards. Gibbs totaled 35 receptions for 465 yards and two touchdowns. His best game of the season came against Virginia where he finished with 223 all-purpose yards. He finished with 113 rushing yards, 48 receiving yards and 62 kick return yards. Following the 2021 season Gibbs entered the transfer portal and ultimately picked Alabama as his final destination.
Most NFL Draft analysts are already predicting Gibbs will leave after one season at Alabama. He is an elusive runner who has incredible short area bursts of speed. He will not be the fastest on the field but rarely does he get caught from behind. Gibbs is also a strong runner where he is able to fight through arm tackles. He also has good vision to find the holes the offensive line creates for him. Gibbs will need to work on his patience. He will run into congested areas rather if the running lane is not immediately available. Gibbs also struggles in pass blocking situations where he gets out muscled by defenders. Adding additional weight to his frame will help prevent getting bullied by opposing defenses.
Playing in the SEC will allow Gibbs numerous opportunities to showcase his talents to the country. The Crimson Tide also travel to Texas on national television in week two which will be his first major action of the season. Alabama will also host Utah State, Louisiana-Monroe, Vanderbilt, Texas A&M, Mississippi State, Austin Peay and Auburn this season. Along with traveling to Austin for a game, the Crimson Tide will go on the road against Tennessee, Ole Miss, LSU and Arkansas. Gibbs will play on national television for almost every one of his games. A strong season and he should be in line for a day one or day two pick in the NFL draft.
