July 30, 2006

The following feature on the running backs is the sixth installment of position by position on the Wayne State football program.

"Every year we have made improvements on the offensive side of the ball," said head coach Paul Winters. "We have taken baby steps, but now it's time to hit the ground running. We are looking to explode offensively in 2006."

Leading the ground attack for WSU is senior Chris Middlebrooks, who became just the fifth player in school history to rush for over 1,000 yards in a season as he gained 1,029 yards in only 10 games last season. He will be pushed for the starting role by redshirt freshman Joique Bell and Smith Julmisse.

The crowded backfield also has returnees Oral Hylton, Bruno Shkreli and Channing Pritchett along with newcomers Carl Braggs and Neil Mitchell. Michigan Tech transfer Daryl Graham will redshirt in 2006 due to GLIAC transfer rules.

Junior Luis Gomez returns at fullback and will be backed-up by redshirt freshman Brian Rilley and Everett Stephenson.

"We have more talent and experience at the running back position than any time in my tenure at Wayne. The best battle for playing time will be waged at running back. Chris Middlebrooks returns as a Second Team All-GLIAC choice and a 1,000-yard runner. Luis Gomez returns for his third season as the lead blocking back. Smith Julmisse was an occasional starter in '05 before an injury ended his season. Joique Bell brings versatility and talent to the competition."

Head coach and running backs coach Paul Winters gave us his thoughts on each of his players (alphabetically) for the upcoming campaign:

Joique Bell (r-Fr., RB, Benton Harbor, Mich.) redshirted in 2005. "Joique is a complete receiver, runner and blocker. He is very fluid and may also see action as a returner."

Carl Braggs (Fr., RB, Detroit, Mich./Renaissance) signed with WSU last February. "He is a strong runner with good vision."

Luis Gomez (r-Jr., FB, Oxford, Mich.) had a WSU season-long 42-yard run in 2005. "Luis is a fearless blocker with great feet. He can catch the ball coming out of the backfield."

Daryl Graham (Jr., RB, Detroit, Mich./St. Martin de Porres) will redshirt in 2006 after transferring from Michigan Tech. "He is very fast and explosive. We expect him to be a team leader for the next three seasons."

Oral Hylton (r-Sr., RB, Detroit, Mich./Cooley) saw action at Northern Michigan in 2005. "Oral is very strong with good hands and good feet."

Smith Julmisse (r-Jr., RB, Oakland Park, Fla./Westminster) started twice a year ago. "He is a strong and quick back. Smith is a team leader."

Chris Middlebrooks (Sr., RB, Romulus, Mich.) has rushed for 13 career touchdowns. "Chris is a quick and tough back. He has great character and is one of our team leaders."

Neil Mitchell (Fr., RB, Toledo, Ohio/Central Catholic) played on a state championship team at Central Catholic. "Neil is a fluid athlete that can also play corner."

Channing Pritchett (r-Fr., RB, Saginaw, Mich./Nouvel Catholic Central) redshirted at WSU in 2005. "Channing is a valuable squad member that is trying to find playing time."

Brian Rilley (r-Fr., FB, Taylor, Mich./Allen Park Cabrini) redshirted in 2005 after being injured at the Michigan High School All-Star game. "Brian is a tough blocker that is just learning the fullback position."

Bruno Shkreli (r-Fr., RB, Livonia, Mich./Clarenceville) redshirted in 2005 at WSU. "Bruno is a very tough runner. He is a real competitor that should really help us on special teams this year."