Kevin Smith Scouting Report

Smith entered his collegiate career with a bang. In 2005 (his freshman season), Smith rushed for 1,178 yards on 249 carries for an average of 4.7 per attempt, also recording nine touchdowns. He also contributed on the passing game, catching eight passes for 44 yards and was then voted to the First Team All American Freshman squad. He started nine games during the 2006 campaign, recording 206 carries for 934 yards, with a 4.5 average and scoring seven rushing TDs. He also caught 23 balls for an additional 158 yards and was voted to the All Conference USA Second Team. In 2007 (his junior campaign), Smith really pushed the envelop, leading the nation with 2,567 rushing yards. He also scored 29 TDs. As of today, Smith had contacted a pro agent and will enter the 2008 NFL Draft. Smith certainly has proven to be a workhorse type of feature back. He is instinctive and runs with excellent vision and balance -- Effectively running between the tackles. He is patient, allowing blocks to develop before accelerating. Smith really uses his arms effectively, moving the pile and protecting the football well. Smith also has some blocking ability, with good blitz awareness and some ability as a route runner. He will extend his arms to catch the football thrown away from his body. But, he is an underclassman and is not the faster back (4.55-40). He also lacks burst and will get caught from behind on the second level. Smith needs to add strength and must show that he has tackle-breaking ability. Because of his amazing production, Smith will be highly rated coming into the Combine drills. But, he might be pushed down afterwards because of his size and clocked time. He is not the best athlete out there, but can hold his own. Although an underclassman, he is ready for the next level. Primarily because of his perceived limitations (somewhat revealed on UCF's bowl game), Smith would probably be downgraded to the middle of the third round. That said, Smith is the kind of player that has the ability to become a workhorse-type running back in the NFL. He could be one of the early steals of the draft.