Cox surprisingly leads pack at running back for Rebels

Editor's note: This is the second story in a series examining the top five questions the UNLV football team faces as it prepares to open training camp Saturday. Today's question: How will the running back battle play out?

UNLV coach Bobby Hauck prefers big running backs, demands that they help with pass protection and won't tolerate fumbling.

The first-year Rebels coach moved C.J. Cox to the top of the depth chart after spring practices, believing the 5-foot-11-inch, 205-pound junior best meets his criteria.

But the position is far from settled. Redshirt freshman Bradley Randle (5-7, 195) and senior Channing Trotter (5-9, 200) will continue competing against Cox as UNLV prepares for its Sept. 4 season opener against Wisconsin at Sam Boyd Stadium.

Also, freshmen Dionza Bradford (6-0, 200) and Tim Cornett (6-0, 195) will join the mix in training camp.

Hauck said he plans to play three running backs, so in some ways it doesn't matter who starts. That also means the position might not be completely decided when the season begins.

"It's a 13-game schedule," Hauck said. "It's a very, very physical position, and I'm a firm believer in playing those guys and keeping them fresh, not just through a game but through a season."

The Rebels' running game ranked seventh in the nine-team Mountain West Conference last season, averaging 126.8 yards per game.

Cox has averaged just 3.5 yards per carry in two seasons, so his ascent to the top of the depth chart during the spring was surprising.

Trotter averaged 4.7 yards last season, rushing for a team-best 541 yards and nine touchdowns, with a hard-charging style.

Randle, a much-hyped recruit, showed a big-play burst in the spring as well as the capability to become UNLV's go-to back.

Contact reporter Mark Anderson at manderson@reviewjournal.com or 702-387-2914.