Micah Bernard: The Rise of Utah's Star Running Back

Micah Bernard, the senior running back for the University of Utah's football team, has been making waves in the college football scene with his impressive performance this season. With 547 yards and a score on 82 carries, Bernard ranks No. 14 in FBS in rushing yards per game, making him one of the nation's most productive running backs.

Bernard's journey to becoming the Utes' top running back has not been an easy one. He has been part of the team since 2019 but has never been the featured back until this season. His goal was to earn the RB1 role, and he has finally achieved it.

Bernard's recent success can be attributed to his hard work and dedication. He has been trying to get more carries for the past five to six years, and it has finally paid off. 'It feels pretty good,' Bernard said after the Oklahoma State game. 'Honestly, just, Ive been trying to work for a long time to get, this is the most carries Ive ever had.'

Despite his individual success, Bernard acknowledges the importance of having a strong supporting cast. The Utes need a secondary running back who can give Bernard a break and throw another look at opposing defenses. However, in the last two games, non-Bernard running backs combined for just 28 yards in Utahs two Big 12 Conference contests.

Bernard has also been dealing with a nagging ankle injury since fall camp, which has kept him from performing at his best this season. The bye week has helped him heal up a little more, and he is feeling great coming off the injury.

The Utes' head coach, Kyle Whittingham, wants to limit Bernard to a maximum of 25 carries per game and ideally 20 totes per contest. Whittingham emphasizes that it's a marathon, not a sprint, and they need to ensure Bernard gets the reps accordingly.

Bernard's performance has been impressive, but it's not just about the numbers. He has had memorable runs, including a 64-yarder against Utah State that featured no less than four stiff arms to set the Utes up for a game-sealing touchdown.

In a recent Q&A session with UtahUtes.com, Bernard discussed his season and growth as a player. He mentioned that he has matured a lot and learned a lot from his teammates and coaches. He also emphasized the importance of chipping away and not relying on big runs all the time.

Bernard's impact extends beyond the field. He has been known to engage with fans on social media, even responding to mean tweets. This shows his commitment to building a positive relationship with the community.

As the season progresses, fans are eager to see how Bernard and the Utes will perform. With Bernard's current form and the team's overall strength, they are looking forward to a promising second half of the season.

In conclusion, Micah Bernard's journey to becoming the Utes' top running back is a testament to his hard work and dedication. His impressive performance this season has made him one of the nation's most productive running backs, and he continues to be a key piece in Utahs offense. Learn More at Direct Post.