In the ever-intense debate surrounding college football prospects, few statements spark controversy quite like comparisons to Heisman Trophy finalists. That’s exactly what happened when a top analyst recently compared Arizona State running back Cam Skattebo to one of the 2024 Heisman finalists—only to add the caveat that Skattebo’s “top-end speed is not A+.”
The Comparison That Set Off Debates
The analyst, whose evaluation has already made waves across social media, likened Skattebo to a Heisman finalist who showcased elite-level explosiveness in the 2024 season. The finalist in question? None other than [Insert Heisman Finalist’s Name], a running back widely regarded for his breakaway speed and game-breaking ability.
While the analyst praised Skattebo’s physicality, vision, and ability to break tackles, it was the “not A+” remark about his top-end speed that divided fans and scouts alike. Critics argue that speed is the defining trait of elite college running backs, while supporters claim that Skattebo’s well-rounded skill set makes him just as valuable—even without track-star speed.
Is Speed Overrated in Today’s Game?
The idea that a running back needs elite speed to be successful is a long-standing narrative in football. However, recent seasons have shown that players who lack pure speed can still dominate at the collegiate level. Skattebo’s 2023 season with Arizona State proved exactly that—he consistently produced in an offense that struggled overall, showcasing strength, balance, and an underrated ability to turn small gains into big plays.
Comparing this to the 2024 Heisman finalist, who thrived in a more explosive offensive system, raises a crucial question: Would Skattebo have put up similar numbers in a more dynamic scheme? If so, how much does his perceived lack of “A+” speed really matter?
NFL Implications: Can Skattebo Translate to the Next Level?
For NFL scouts, the debate goes beyond just college production. They want to know if a running back’s skill set will translate to Sundays. Some of the most successful backs in NFL history—Frank Gore, Emmitt Smith, and even recent star David Montgomery—weren’t known for elite breakaway speed but thrived due to their durability, vision, and ability to shed tackles.
On the other hand, NFL teams covet explosive athletes who can break long runs, and the perception of Skattebo as a “not A+” speed guy could impact his draft stock. Some analysts believe he could thrive as a power-back in a committee role, while others think his all-around game makes him an every-down player.
The Final Verdict
The controversy over Cam Skattebo’s speed will likely continue until draft day and beyond. But here’s the reality: While breakaway speed is an asset, it isn’t the sole determinant of a running back’s success. Skattebo has already proven he can produce against top-tier defenses, and if given the right opportunity, he might just prove that being labeled as “not A+” in one category doesn’t mean he can’t be an elite player overall.
So, is Skattebo’s speed a real concern, or is this just another case of overanalyzing measurables? Let the debates begin.