Louisville football: Five offensive players with most to prove in 2020

Javian Hawkins – RB

Atwell was not the only breakout player from last year that had success with the option. Running back Javian Hawkins also had an impressive season. With 264 attempts, he rushed for 1,525 yards and 9 touchdowns.

Last season, most eyes were focused on Hassan Hall at the running back position for the Cardinals. However, Javian Hawkins quickly emerged as the star. Running back coach Norval Mckenzie noticed his potential last Spring in practice. “He had our most explosive run during spring ball,” McKenzie said. “He brings a lot to the table for our offense.”

Hawkins was one of the most consistent players for Louisville football as he produced 100-plus yards on the ground in eight of the Cards 13 games, including a career-high 233 yards on 23 carries against Syracuse. He broke numerous rushing records at Louisville and became the first running back to eclipse 1,000 yards since Bilal Powell in 2010, on way to being named 2nd-Team All-ACC and a member of the Football Writers Association of America Freshman All-American Team.

There won’t be any surprises this season. Just as Atwell, Hawkins is a small 5-9, 185 pounds but hits the hole hard. Several games last season stood out. One was the win over Syracuse where he rushed for 233 yards and one touchdown. He also snapped Clemson’s 27-game streak without allowing a 100-yard rusher. In the game against the Tigers, he rushed 26 times for 129 yards and a TD.

Cameron Teague of the Courier Journal, even has Hawkins on the list of potential 2020 Heisman winners. Only one player who was in the Heisman discussion last season is returning, which leaves a void for players like Hawkins to sneak into the conversation.

The Heisman is a lofty goal, but it shows the expectations that Javian Hawkins has created entering the 2020 season.