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Iowa: Akrum Wadley is a top-20 running back in the country. In 2016, he tallied 1,081 yards and 10 touchdowns on the ground while finishing second on the team with 36 receptions. However, the Hawkeyes will have a revamped depth chart following the departures of LeShun Daniels Jr. and Derrick Mitchell Jr.

Kentucky: Even after losing Boom Williams and Jojo Kemp, Kentucky's backfield remains in good hands. Benny Snell eclipsed the 1,000-yard mark and scored 13 touchdowns during his first college season. Snell could be the next elite running back in a conference filled with them.

Miami: The 'Canes have an outstanding starter but unproven depth. Mark Walton ran for 1,117 yards and 14 touchdowns, also catching 27 passes last season. His backup in 2017 will be Travis Homer, who starred on special teams as a freshman yet only handled seven carries while waiting behind Joe Yearby and Gus Edwards.

New Mexico State: Larry Rose III was a wildly productive back in 2014 and 2015, collecting 2,759 yards and 23 touchdowns combined. However, he battled injury and a rough year as a junior. New Mexico State needs a bounce-back year from Rose.

Oklahoma State: There's a lot to like about Oklahoma State's offense heading into 2017, and 1,000-yard rusher Justice Hill is an important part of that high-scoring attack. But the Pokes lost their top three backups from last year, so they're rebuilding that depth this season.

Stanford: Consider this an expression of unwavering confidence in Bryce Love, despite a place outside the top 25. Christian McCaffrey's excellence limited Love's impact last season, but the rising junior seems destined for a breakout 2017. He's already topped 1,000 career yards on just 141 carries in two seasons.

TCU: Kyle Hicks performed well during his first season as a starter, while both Darius Anderson and Sewo Olonilua averaged eight-plus yards on limited carries. TCU's depth looks promising, but it's better to take a wait-and-see approach behind Hicks.

Troy: Among lesser-discussed "Group of Five" teams, Troy might create the biggest stir in 2017. But can Memphis transfer Jamarius Henderson give the Trojans a lethal one-two punch alongside Jordan Chunn? He's been a touchdown machine for the offense.

Update (6/7)

New Mexico: We all make mistakes, and leaving New Mexico off the initial list was a particularly large, regrettable error. Tyrone Owens edged the 1,000-yard mark last season, and Richard McQuarley racked up 18 touchdowns after scoring seven in 2015.