Bernard Pierce Scouting Report

Temple Owls running back Bernard Pierce is a good-sized back with explosion and quickness. Ultimately, his combine is going to dictate where he lands in the 2012 NFL Draft after running all over the competition in the Mid-American Conference. Pierce ran for 1,381 yards and 25 TDs in only 10 games this year.

Pierce loves to cut back and explode through holes. He always runs like he is one step ahead of defenders with good vision. He's a former track star who could surprise scouts with a sub 4.5 40-yard dash time. In all likelihood, it'll be a bit slower than that but even still, Pierce's decisive running style will appeal to running back coaches across the league.

Backs of Pierce's size have to play behind their lines and trust their blockers. They create a big target and will take a lot of punishment. The longer they can stay protected, the better.

He needs to improve his ability to fight through crowds and keep his balance. Scouts will definitely be weary of the competition he faced playing in the MAC. Pierce was simply more athletic than many of his opponents and when he did face BCS-caliber opponents, his play didn't carry over as well.