Analysis: Led by Omarion Hampton, running backs to show depth during 2024 season

Since his arrival in December 2022, offensive coordinator Chip Lindsey and head coach Mack Brown have crafted one of the most explosive offenses in college football, ranking seventh nationally in total offense last season. 

This year, the Tar Heels are working to build a solid ground game in order to open up the passing game for either graduate quarterback Max Johnson or sophomore quarterback Conner Harrell. Former UNC quarterback Drake Maye threw for 3,608 yards, leading the ACC in passing yards and ranking 12th in the nation overall. While the passing attack was one of the main highlights last season, the run game is now equally as potent, with junior running back Omarion Hampton leading the charge.

Hampton ranked fifth in the country last season in rushing yards. His presence made defending both the pass and run difficult for opposing squads. This deadly one-two punch was the key to UNC’s offense last season. 

And with Hampton returning to North Carolina, here is a look at how the running back room will fair this season. 

Omarion Hampton 

Once again, Hampton will likely be the focal point of the Tar Heels’ ground game.

Last year, the junior led the ACC in rushing with 1,504 yards — ranked second on UNC's single-season list — on 253 carries, leading him to First-Team All-ACC and Second-Team All-American honors. Hampton also led the country in yards after contact with 1,072. 

At 220 pounds, Hampton is a premier power back in college football, who plowed his way into the end zone for 15 touchdowns — ranked sixth on UNC's single-season list — last year.

With his former running back partner British Brooks heading to the pros, Hampton will likely receive even more touches during the season. 

Darwin Barlow 

Graduate student Darwin Barlow is a running back with five years of experience at TCU and USC.

During the 2023 season, Barlow recorded 81 yards on eight carries with the Trojans. Over his five years, he amassed 993 yards and 11 touchdowns. 

With one year of eligibility remaining, Barlow is an expert in finding holes to convert third-and-short situations. Expect Brown to utilize Barlow as a third down back and in goal line situations to help take the workload off of Hampton.

Furthermore, the graduate also serves as a veteran presence in the locker room. 

Caleb Hood 

Caleb Hood is entering his fourth season with the Tar Heels and looking to bring his versatility in various running, passing and special teams spots.

During his sophomore year, Hood tallied 250 yards on 43 carries and recorded his longest rush of 71 yards against Appalachian State. His numbers decreased during his junior season with the running back only recording 43 yards and one touchdown on 15 carries. 

Hood suffered an upper-body injury during the eighth game against Pitt last season. Despite his injury history, the senior can provide great utility and depth for the running back room, especially if Brown decides to integrate more two-back formation into the offense.  

Charleston French 

Sophomore Charleston French, a transfer from Itawamba Community College, earned numerous honors during his single season with the Indians, including National Junior College Athletic Association All-Region 23 honors along with First Team All-MACCC. 

Last year, French rushed for 924 yards and eight touchdowns, averaging 102.7 yards per game and ranking third nationally.

He's shown his talent at Itawamba and has the ability to make that same impact as a Tar Heel. 

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