Mizzou Football: Five Best Running Backs Of All-Time

Number One: James Wilder

James Wilder, also known as ‘The Sikeston Train’, played for the Tigers from 1978-1980. He isn’t among the all-time leaders where stats are concerned but he did help the Tigers to three straight bowl appearances alongside Phil Bradley, another great Missouri player.

Wilder finished his career with 2,357 yards rushing and 4.8 yards per attempt. He also scored a total of 22 touchdowns in only three seasons at Missouri.

Wilder helped the Tigers to back to back bowl wins against LSU in 1978 and South Carolina in 1979. The 1978 bowl game was the first bowl appearance by the Tigers since 1973, so ‘The Sikeston Train’ helped bring back a winning culture to the Tigers. The Tigers won 23 games from 1978-1980 as Wilder and Bradley propelled the Tigers to three consecutive winning seasons.

If you’re wondering why he’s nicknamed “The Sikeston Train’ this video may help you out:

While Wilder doesn’t have the best stats of any Mizzou running back, he is in the Tigers hall of fame. He was also one of the most successful running backs in the NFL to come out of Missouri. He’s a Mizzou fan favorite, and that was enough to boost him to the top of the list in my opinion.

Next: Who Were The Best QB's

So what do you think Tigers’ fans? What running backs would make your list? Do the Tigers have anyone on the current roster that has a shot of making this list? Let’s discuss in the comments section below.

(All stats provided by www.sports-reference.com and www.mutigers.com)