Inside the Iggles
FanSided

Byron Marshall Is a Jack Of All Trades

By Matt Giraldi

Sep 5, 2015; Eugene, OR, USA; Eastern Washington Eagles defensive back Rashad Wadood (21) defends against Oregon Ducks wide receiver Byron Marshall (9) at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Olmos-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 5, 2015; Eugene, OR, USA; Eastern Washington Eagles defensive back Rashad Wadood (21) defends against Oregon Ducks wide receiver Byron Marshall (9) at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Olmos-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
2 of 4
Next
Nov 29, 2014; Corvallis, OR, USA; Oregon Ducks tight end Pharaoh Brown (85) holds his hands up as running back Byron Marshall (9) runs for a touchdown against the Oregon State Beavers in the first half at Reser Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Olmos-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 29, 2014; Corvallis, OR, USA; Oregon Ducks tight end Pharaoh Brown (85) holds his hands up as running back Byron Marshall (9) runs for a touchdown against the Oregon State Beavers in the first half at Reser Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Olmos-USA TODAY Sports /

To say that Marshall’s senior season was a disappointment is a severe understatement. After suffering a season-ending injury in September against Utah, Marshall was never able to truly capitalize on his potential. Regardless, he was added to the Eagles as an undrafted free agent and now has his future in his hands.

Marshall was the only player in Pac-12 history to rush for 1,000 yards and receive over 1,000 yards. At the time, Marshall was only the 20th player in Oregon history to rush for over 1,000 yards. While he only had one season of productivity at running back, he exhibited the all the traits that make him an interesting option for Pederson’s offense.

Part of the level of improvement that Marshall will need to focus on is his blocking. In order to be a third-down back in the NFL, you need to be able to engage defenders, chip-block, and position yourself in open space. While Marshall made attempts at block, similarly to Notre Dame rookie running back C.J. Prosise, he’s learning the subtle nuances of the position and isn’t fully ready for the professional responsibilities. This isn’t due to a lack of effort, as he actively engages defenders, it’s simply his lack of strength and poise. Both negative traits can be improved, but ultimately will determine whether Marshall becomes another Josh Huff, or a Brian Westbrook.

Next: Byron Marshall As a Wide Receiver

Home/Eagles News