As the backup last season, Howard finished with 881 yards (6.1 YPC) and two touchdowns, including 152 yards on just 23 carries (6.6 YPC) against the SEC defenses of LSU and Vanderbilt. With Darrin Reaves turning pro a year early this offseason, Howard could emerge as UAB's workhorse RB this year. He certainly has the build necessary to carry an offense at 6-1, 228. UAB hired a new coach in Bill Clark, formerly of Jacksonville State, and Clark should move UAB to a more run-heavy approach. Jacksonville State RB DaMarcus James totaled 1,477 yards (5.1 YPC) and 29 touchdowns on Clark's watch last year, so it would be disappointing if Howard didn't easily turn in a 1,000-yard, 10-touchdown season.