Bainbridge running backs coach Larry Cosby has his eyes on junior Rashad Broadnax to lead the Bearcats rushing attack this season.

An injury his freshman year clung to him during Broadnax’s sophomore season. Despite that, he rushed for 668 yards and four touchdowns in 2018. Now that the tailback is fully healthy, Cosby sees Broadnax hitting 1,000 yards or more in 2019.

“He hasn’t done it yet, but he is capable of doing it,” said Cosby. “He’s healthy and we hope he stays healthy. It will be good for him.”

Last season’s one-two punch of Broadnax and former Bearcat running back Caleb McDowell won’t be in action this season. McDowell is currently on Lee County’s roster as a wide receiver and defensive back. Despite losing him, Cosby is confident in the depth Bainbridge has behind Broadnax.

Juniors Caleb Lewis and Courtney Thomas are getting reps at tailback this summer. Another pair of juniors, Tahari Tate and Eric Sanders, are practicing at fullback. Senior Tevin McCray is also in the mix, Cosby said. McCray rushed for 228 yards and a pair of touchdowns in 2018, often rotating in when Bainbridge’s primary backs were unavailable and handling the load well.

“Tevin McCray is a sleeper,” said Cosby. “He’s been doing everything great this summer. We’re happy with him. He is going to be a great asset for us. Since we lost (McDowell), we are going to have to (have good depth). I think they are going to be good enough.”

Dante Broadnax, Rashad’s little brother, is a highly touted freshman on the Bearcats’ roster. Cosby noted his abilities were impressive, but his youth is still obvious. Bainbridge hopes to sprinkle Dante into the game more as the season goes on, said Cosby.