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Philadelphia Eagles Film Study: Mike Weber is waiting to breakout

By Malcolm Davis

Nov 26, 2016; Columbus, OH, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes running back Mike Weber (25) is congratulated by offensive lineman Jamarco Jones (74) and tight end Marcus Baugh (85) after his third quarter touchdown against the Michigan Wolverines at Ohio Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Greg Bartram-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 26, 2016; Columbus, OH, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes running back Mike Weber (25) is congratulated by offensive lineman Jamarco Jones (74) and tight end Marcus Baugh (85) after his third quarter touchdown against the Michigan Wolverines at Ohio Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Greg Bartram-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 8, 2016; Columbus, OH, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes running back Mike Weber (25) hurdles the tackle of Indiana Hoosiers defensive back Jonathan Crawford (9) during the second half at Ohio Stadium. The Buckeyes won 38-17. Mandatory Credit: Joe Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 8, 2016; Columbus, OH, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes running back Mike Weber (25) hurdles the tackle of Indiana Hoosiers defensive back Jonathan Crawford (9) during the second half at Ohio Stadium. The Buckeyes won 38-17. Mandatory Credit: Joe Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports /

Verdict

Mike Weber is a late second to early third round back that can, like just about every prospect, boost his draft stock with a big 2017. Weber is in a great position as Ohio State is returning several starters on offense from 2016, including multiple veterans along the offensive line. With  BCS Championship expectations, this team will go as far as Mike Weber can carry them. A sure bet to hold on to the football, catch the ball with more efficiency, and build on his 182 carries, Weber is in position for a HUGE year.

Even though he lacks the experience of some of the more tenured runners in college, in one season Mike Weber showed why he was so highly coveted out of high school. Weber definitely has room to grow as a runner and catcher, but had several big games in 2016. The Ohio State offense is predicated on dominant running back play, and Weber will have to show that not only can he carry the load on his end, but also pick up some of the production left behind when skill player Curtis Samuel‘s declared for the NFL.

As far as fumbling, Weber will need to keep the ball high and tight, and not be a liability for his offense. Fumbles can be drive killers, and momentum killers, so running backs need to specialize in ball security. Weber needs a clean 2017, showing improvements in fumbling, for coaches to trust him in an RB1 role.

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