Fisher's Revenge
UHND.com - Ken L. Britton
November 11, 2000

Despite being ND's leading rusher last season, and only being a sophomore, you would think Tony Fisher would be a shoe in for starting tailback this year.  But Davie, desperate for wins, instead designates Julius Jones as the "goto" back, mainly because of his game breaking speed.  Yet Fisher did not complain one bit, simply agreeing to do his job, wherever the coaching staff decided to place him.

The result being , well, an injured Julius Jones has proved that not only is Tony Fisher probably every bit of good as his younger counterpart, but Terrance Howard is too good to keep off the football field as well.  It has also proved another undeniable point which many posters on the message boards have known for weeks: That with good play from the line, it doesn't matter who's running behind them as long as he's capable.

As asked a question last week:   Has Julius Jones proven that he is so much better than Tony Fisher and Terrance Howard that he should be given the bulk of the carries?  Well Jones did not get a chance, however at this point Fisher has proved he deserves more playing time.

Fisher's performance has probably set off a red light that forces Davie to rethink his plans.  With all three backs coming back next year, a question burdens as to whether or not Jones can (and even should) start against Nebraska in Lincoln.  Maybe he doesn't have the game breaking speed of Jones, but Fisher can run with much more power, he is a much better blocker, and can catch the ball out of the backfield as good, if not better, than anyone in the nation.  He may be a more complete back than Jones, at this point in time, or he may not.  But can anyone at this point justify if JJ gets 35 carries against USC in two weeks?

Fisher will start on Saturday with Jones out, and yes Howard will get quite a few carries as well.  The question is will he after that?

Comments? Questions?   All email is appreciated: klb1@somnus.host4u.net