Breaking down Virginia’s running backs

THE STARTER
Tailback
Mikell Simpson
Senior — 6-foot-1, 200 pounds
The skinny: After tearing up opposing defenses late in the 2007 campaign, Simpson struggled to get on track last year. He played in nine games before a season-ending shoulder injury and mustered only 262 yards and three touchdowns. The Harrisburg, Pa., native is currently slotted as the top ball carrier on the depth chart, but was spotted in a walking boot last week.

THE RESERVES
Perry Jones
Freshman — 5-foot-8, 185 pounds
The skinny: A two-way standout in high school, Jones was slotted at tailback. He scored 54 touchdowns at Oscar Smith High, but is unlikely to see the field this season.

Torrey Mack
RS Freshman — 6 feet, 190 pounds
The skinny: Players have raved about Mack since his arrival, and for good reason. The 4-star recruit has speed, quickness and the attitude needed to play the position. “He is a freak,” said Virginia quarterback Jameel Sewell. “There is just something about him that I love. He is a tremendous talent.” Mack could start the opener if Simpson is unable to bounce back from a foot injury.

Max Milien
Sophomore – 6 feet, 210 pounds
The skinny: Although he made strides in practice last year, Milien did not appear in a game for the Cavaliers. Milien is unlikely to make an impact at tailback, but could see time returning kicks.

Keith Payne
Junior — 6-foot-3, 245 pounds
The skinny: A steady special-teams player last year, Payne missed five games after breaking a bone in his hand at Duke. Payne has impressed early in training camp and could push for the consistent playing time that was originally expected to come his way after a stellar high school career. Last year, Payne managed just five carries for 36 yards and split time at tailback and fullback.

Dominique Wallace
Freshman — 6 feet, 230 pounds
The skinny: Built for success with his imposing frame, Wallace could play fullback or tailback at Virginia. For now, Wallace has worked with the scout team and continues to impress with his versatility. “He has looked great so far,” said Virginia quarterback Vic Hall. “He runs hard.” It is doubtful that Wallace will play this season with Mack, Payne, Simpson and Rashawn Jackson ahead of him on the depth chart.

THE FULLBACKS
Rashawn Jackson
Senior — 6-foot-1, 245 pounds
The skinny: It remains uncertain what role Jackson will play in the new spread offense. He admitted that he was curious as to how a fullback would be used in the current system, but he has taken numerous reps with the first-team offense and remains a viable option in short-yardage scenarios. Last year, Jackson finished with 16 carries and 62 yards. He did not score a touchdown.

Curt Orshoski
Sophomore — 6-foot-2, 250 pounds
The skinny: Orshoski made his debut last year on the kickoff team and is likely to play a similar role this season with Jackson back in the fold at fullback.