With leading rusher Chauncey Washington off to the NFL, we know the Stafon Johnson and Joe McKnight tandem are going to see significant playing time in 2008. But what about the rest of the tailbacks crowding the stable? What about the young, the injured, the men working to get back into the mix? The above video, produced by Erica Bardin for USCfootball.com, showcases the Trojan tailback talent and attempts at tackling some of those questions.

CJ Gable should see some good playing time after a stomach injury/surgery forced him to redshirt in 2007. Coming back on the experienced ball-handler ticket, reports say Gable hasn’t missed a beat and is running tough as ever. Then there’s junior Alan Bradford, who has been singled out as the most impressive surprise after practice week #1. Running backs’ coach Todd McNair has described Bradford as playing “with a chip on his shoulder.” And that’s the only way to play when you’re competing with the best tailbacks in the nation for a spot on the field. Then there’s Marc Tyler and Broderick Green. Both red-shirted in 2007. Both want to make it into the mix in 2008. But with the backfield already so crowded, they’re more likely to play bigger parts in future seasons than in ’08.

That said, there’s a chance for all of them yet. Pete Carroll isn’t known for playing favorites…he’s known for playing play-makers. And with a week left in Spring practice, and the whole summer still ahead, a lot of things can still change. Competition Tuesday is every Tuesday, and if you don’t play your hardest, Pete will have no problem plopping you down on the bench. Then, knock on wood, there’s injury, illness, attitude, academics, probation, scandal and arrest (hey, I’m just being real). Basically, it ain’t over ’til it’s over…and it’s only just begun.