Omarion Hampton: UNC's Dynamic Running Back Making Waves in 2024

Omarion Hampton: UNC's Dynamic Running Back Making Waves in 2024

Omarion Hampton: UNC's Dynamic Running Back Making Waves in 2024

Photo by AP Photo/Nell Redmond

During the 2024 season, Omarion Hampton became a key part of UNC football as he carried his weight as a running back. A 6-foot, 220-pound linebacker with the size, speed, and agility combo you want to see on your roster. The road started in Clayton, North Carolina, where Scott was an athlete monster blowing up as he earned accolades, such as the North Carolina Gatorade Player of the Year and Mr. Football for NC. While a rookie, Hampton had 1,504 yards from scrimmage with fifteen touchdowns on the ground as he was a top-ten running back in college football. Through the 2024 season, he had taken that success a step further as one of three finalists for America's top running back.

2024 Season Highlights

Standout performance: Against rival Duke, Hampton ran for over 200 yards and scored three times as the Tar Heels rolled to a big win. Not only did his run display massive acceleration, but he was also able to break tackles and churn out yards after contact.

Key Stats: He has rushed for 1,002 yards on the season through round one at a clip of over six (6.2) and four scores. He has also tacked on ten rushing touchdowns and been a pass-catching option out of the backfield, turning 25 passes into 300 yards and two scores.

Impact Plays: One of the lasting plays from this season was Hampton's 75-yard touchdown run, which helped turn the tide against Florida State. Due to his ability as a dynamic returner, he has proven that he can change a game with one play.

Playing Style and Strengths

Speed and Agility: HamptonĀ is lightning-quick, and his agility helps him make defenders miss with quick moves to change direction when trying to be brought down.

Through the Tackles: Hampton (6'1"/220 lbs) is a punishing, physical runner. He is tough to stop in short-yardage scenarios, as his strength allows him to run through tackles and gain an extra one or two. His ability to keep his balance and continue forward momentum when contacted shows that this man takes care of himself.

Vision and Decision Making: Hampton's vision is one of the things that separates him from other RBs in his class. He reads defenses well and can use quick actions in his mind to open up the best running lanes.

Pass Protection and Receiving Skills: While coming in as a running back by trade, Hampton also developed into a solid pass protector. He is a true do-it-all TE with his ability to block for the QB and has improved as a pass catcher. Meanwhile, his 25 receptions this season signal that he can be just as effective of a receiver, another facet to hide in the Rams.

Impact on Team/Program

Hampton has done more than produce on the field; his impact and morale have proven pivotal for a short-handed UNC football team.

Taking on a Leadership Role: As one of the team's core players, Hampton has become more vocal and leads by example for some of the newer guys. His upbeat personality and competitive style also help create a great team environment.

Team Confidence: Hampton has been able to make plays, which not only increases his own level of comfort but also gets the other players excited. Most of the time, his performances have been a driving force to victories, at least encouraging him in his outlook while also galvanizing others around him with unity and hope.

His on-field success has brought the program increased attention, creating a stronger national perception and desired location for future recruits to play alongside an NFL-caliber running back.

Future Outlook and Potential

The future is looking more than bright for Omarion Hampton as the 2024 season unspools. The combination of his physical profile and skill development suggests he has a chance to be impactful.

NFL Prospects: With his film and skill set, Hampton is projected as one of the top prospects heading into this year's NFL Draft. He has been projected as a mid-to-late-round draft pick, and some have even pegged him to be one of the top five running backs in his class. His ability to do a litany of things well as a back will make him attractive to NFL teams in need of an athletic all-around running back.

Legacy at UNC: Hampton is on the path to leaving a legacy that will be remembered soon after breaking records and recently getting named an All-American. His impact on the program is legendary, and he could be one of the all-time greats in Tar Heel history.

In 2024, Omarion Hampton was one of the UNC football team's breakout stars due to his varied skill set. He has performed well and possesses an unusual combination of skills and leadership attributes that have not only broadened his horizons but also those around him. He is just now entering a career in football that has the capacity to make waves, and fans can expect many more seasons of his electric play.


LATEST

  • NEWS
  • |
  • ARTICLES
  • |
  • VIDEOS
img_articles

Why did Kendre Harrison choose Oregon?

img_articles

Where will Micah Hudson go after leaving Texas ...

img_articles

Auburn football set to lose Holden Geriner to t...

img_articles

Top 5 Alabma Running Backs of All Time

img_articles

12 Team Playoff Predictions

img_articles

Top 10 Players Coming Into College Football in ...

img_articles

Is Coach Steve Sarkisian divorced?

img_articles

How many people can fit into Alabama's Bryant-D...

img_articles

Is Shedeur Sanders single?

img_articles

BossHorn Train Horns Game-Day Traditions

img_articles

Big programs unveil feelings on 2024 December t...

img_articles

Meet Sally Rychlak, Coach Lane Kiffin's girlfriend

img_articles

Who is the best quarterback out of the Notre Da...

img_articles

Why is Keanu Koht leaving Alabama & hitting the...

img_articles

Why did Matthew Sluka transfer out of UNLV?

img_articles

Pros and Cons of the Transfer Portal

img_articles

Who thought of the Miami Turnover Chain?

img_articles

Who is Travis Etienne's brother in the Georgia ...

img_articles

Is Coach Jimbo Fisher married?

img_articles

What Happened to Bishop Sycamore?

img_articles

Bryce Underwood's Insane NIL Valuation

img_articles

Who is the Next Great Alabama Quarterback?

img_articles

How One Fan Has Inspired the Colorado Football ...

img_articles

Why Cam Ward Had No Offers

img_articles

Shilo Sanders Net Worth

img_articles

Jimmy Horn Jr. NIL Valuation

img_articles

Shedeur Sanders Draft Status and Where?

img_articles

Week 8 Takes: Number One Loses Three Times in O...

img_articles

Sheduer Sanders Heisman Hopeful

img_articles

Week 8 College Football Game Breakdown

img_articles

Coloradoā€™s Hail Mary Hero Journey

img_articles

After Week 7 takes: Contenders, Hotseats, and H...

img_articles

The Inspirational Quarterback Behind Vanderbilt...

img_articles

FSU's Challenging Start to the 2024 Season

img_articles

Meet May Manning: The Sister of Football Prodig...

img_articles

Why Travis Hunter Holds the Highest NIL Value i...

img_articles

Why the Florida Gators Should Consider Parting ...

img_articles

DJ Lagway's NIL Valuation: What You Need to Know

img_articles

Should FSU Bench DJ Uiagalelei for Brock Glenn?...

img_articles

Exploring Tim Tebow's Faith: His Religious Deno...

img_articles

Top 10 College Football Coaches to Watch in 2024

img_articles

FSU Quarterback DJ Uiagalelei's Love Story: Who...

img_articles

Julian Lewis: The 15-Year-Old Quarterback's Unp...

img_articles

NIL in College Sports 2024: Impact, Changes, an...

img_articles

What is Dabo Swinney's Net Worth?

img_articles

Kyle Whittingham's Salary at Utah: Understandin...

img_articles

Warren Sapp's New Salary in Colorado: Exploring...

img_articles

Mike Norvell's Salary at Florida State: A Look ...

img_articles

Gene Chizik: Is the Former Coach Still Active i...

img_articles

Jim McElwain's Current Coaching Position: Where...

FAN ARCH PODCAST NETWORK