For the six young running backs in spring camp, the first eight spring practices have likely been a blur. Not only have they had to adjust to the rigors of collegiate football practices, but also the playbook and technique required to fit into the Duck offense.

But, they have not been alone in learning through the first few weeks of practice. Despite entering his final spring camp in green and yellow, running back Tony Brooks-James has also had to make distinct changes to his running style. Now coached by former Washington State running backs coach Jim Mastro, Brooks-James says his first steps on each carry have changed

“He’s taught me a different footwork pattern," Brooks-James said of Mastro. "It’s really working out for us as a group. Just to be patient and hit the holes full tilt."

The idea behind the switch is to get the backs headed downfield rather than blasting plays outside. Brooks-James termed the change "a lot different", and admits that it hasn't been the easiest transition for him, especially given his history popping runs off tackle.

“I can run through the tackles," he explained. "But I’m not real used to running through the tackles every down. So, it’s kind of an adjustment."

That alteration mixed with the undeniable talent of freshman running backs like Darrian Felix, CJ Verdell and Travis Dye among others, has Brooks-James on his toes at every moment. While he has more carries than the remaining seven running backs combined (226 to 162), he feels no one is guaranteed anything at the moment.

"I’m just trying to compete every practice to try and earn my reps," he said. "There’s no pecking order in my head. The backfield this talent can sneak up on you."

"It’s time to be focused and learn everything I can. It’ll come together pice by piece.

Brooks-James expects the offense will feature multiple-running back sets once again to take advantage of the team's surfeit of running backs.

Asked which young running back's style he appreciates most, Brooks-James was quick with the answer.

“Definitely CJ," he said. "He’s just so low to the ground. For one, he’s not that tall, so he runs lower. He’s just bouncing off tackles and stuff. If you see him run, you'll see what I'm saying."

Brooks-James found the end zone in Saturday's scrimmage at Franklin High School. The only rushing touchdown by a running back of the day.

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