One of the fastest players on team. Was long coveted by D-back coach Jerry Brown for the defensive backfield, and was recruited by other colleges as a D-back, but came to NU as a running back. NU Coach Randy Walker has not ruled out his return to the Offensive Backfield, but his speed and prior experience makes him a probable starter on defense in 2003.

A former Mr. Ohio Football as a running back and safety, he was an Academic All Big 10 selection last year.

Fought an injury [Shoulder] which also limited his running back time last year, and which prompted his move to WR midway through the season. The play of Jason Wright and Noah Herron also limited his playing time at tailback. Coach Walker has suggested that he could be called upon on short notice to return as a running back if there were injuries at that position.

Backes is ranked 13th nationally in Kickoff Returns [26.2 ypr] and, he averaged 31.8 ypr in his final 5 games. He is second on the team in Kickoff return yardage to Jason Wright [28+ ypr], forming a very dangerous KO return tandem.