Isaiah Spiller Scouting Report: Bringing The Thunder

Vision

I don’t care what anyone says, the most important trait for any running back is vision. Just about any NFL running back can run through holes created by their offensive line. What sets the good apart from the average is being able to find cut-back lanes or the correct lane to run through. Spiller does an excellent job with cutbacks and jump cuts, but at the same time following his blockers. Even with a new offensive line in 2021, I expect Spiller to continue to create yards for himself by letting the defense over-pursue and cutting off their movement.

Big Play Machine

Despite having average at best speed, Spiller is a big play waiting to happen. His thirty-two rushes over 15 yards are impressive over his first two years, particularly when you realize that he plays in the best conference in college football. Most of his big plays were a result of a broken tackle or two but he was still quick enough to outrun the defense. He won’t be the winner of the combine, but he’s a guy you want on your side in the fourth quarter.

Negatives

Lack of Patience

It’s true that when you see an opening, you have to hit it quick, particularly in the NFL. However, if you’re in a rush (no pun attended) then you don’t give enough time for your linemen to do their jobs. Too often I saw Spiller run into a wall of big bodies when he could have spent more time in the backfield waiting for things to open up. Le’Veon Bell is a great example of how to be patient as a running back. At his peak, he would spend an average of three seconds behind the line of scrimmage. I’m not saying Spiller has to do this, but he needs to take some steps in the right direction in regards to rounding out his game.

Receiving Ability

I’m not going to say Spiller isn’t a good receiver because he wasn’t given many chances. Of course, Texas A&M used Ainias Smith, a receiver, as a running back a decent amount so Spiller wasn’t getting any passing plays called for him. Spiller was good as a pass protector, so he’s not useless on third downs. I do worry that Spiller will never become a dynamic receiving option, which could limit his pro potential.

Conclusion

It’s tough nowadays to be a running back drafted in the first round, but I think there’s a solid chance that Spiller hears his name called early. It’s a two-man race between him and Iowa State’s Breece Hall for RB1 and in my opinion, it’ll come down to whoever is more versatile. There’s still plenty of time to settle that debate, but regardless of what happens, I love Spiller’s fit as a pro. You’ll feel comfortable giving him 20+ carries a game and you’ll know he’s going to do the little thing necessary to help you win. Simply put, you win games with guys like Spiller on your team.