FOOTAGE

What a difference a year makes.  This time last year, the Prairie View A&M backfield featured a whopping 23 total carries amongst its top three running backs on the depth chart. Entering 2012, the top two runners have nearly seven times the carries of its 2011 counterparts.

The 1-2 sophomore tandem of Fred Anderson and Courtney Brown lead the way entering the season as the duo combined for over 600 yards and seven touchdowns.  Both backs return a year older, wiser and stronger so the possibilities are endless as the Panthers look to build on last season's No. 1 finish atop the rushing charts in the Southwestern Athletic Conference.

Having experience in the backfield bodes well for the Panthers as it allows them to get an extended look at their younger backs in freshman Johnta' Hebert and junior Levon Castillo.

“Fred and Courtney received a lot of playing time as freshmen so they know what to do,” said running backs coach Brian Morgan.  “Johnta' did a good job in the scrimmage as that was his first big test for him.  Our focus now is keeping Fred and Courtney healthy heading into the first game.”

The Panthers are also in good hands at the fullback spot with the return of Krys Watkins for his senior season.  Watkins can catch the ball out of the backfield well in addition to being a major asset at blocking.

The Panthers practiced once on Tuesday and will have another round of two-a-days on Wednesday.