Spring football spotlight: Top returning running backs

Top 10 running backs returning for next season

1. Ronnie Hillman, La Habra
83 carries, 895 yards, 10 touchdowns
He epitomizes the term "all-purpose."

2. Michael Allain, Fullerton
338, 2,221 yards, 26
He probably will lead the county in rushing.

3. Exavier Edwards, Orange Lutheran
68, 472, 4
A breakout year is in the cards.

4. Jared Moore, Esperanza
159, 962, 11
If he gets the bulk of his team's carries, watch out.

5. Anthony Wilkerson, Tustin
234, 1,211, 9
He might be the school's best since DeShaun Foster.

6. Ruben Ortega, Western
151, 1,410, 18
It's hard to believe he was a sophomore last year.

7. Josh Brannon, Pacifica
246, 1,443, 8
He can carry the Mariners' offense, as he did throughout the playoffs.

8. Jaron Hytche, Mater Dei
77, 463, 10
The big-play back should get a fair share of touches now that all those receivers are gone.

9. Jake Marshall, Mission Viejo
45, 349, 3
The Diablos are due for a big season from their backfield.

10. Greg Portis, Servite
73, 388
He can beat teams in many ways, and he will have to in that offense this season.

Click here for the next 10 returning running backs.

Contact the writer: amaya@ocregister.com