Biography: Three-year starter awarded All-American and all-conference honors since his freshman season. Rushing totals last year included 247 attempts/1805 yards/18 TDs with 17 receptions/210 yards/1 TDs. Also averaged 10.7 yards on 13 punt returns, bringing one back for a score. Sophomore rushing totals included 294/1731/21. Had 230/1546/14 in 2009 when he was named Pac-10 Offensive Freshman of the Year.

Positives: Small yet explosive big play threat who picks up big chunks of yardage whenever the ball is in his hands. Solid athlete who can turn it on a single step and has enough speed to beat defenders around the corner or into the open field. Quickly cuts back against the grain, immediately alters his angle of attack and loses no momentum changing direction. Keeps his feet moving on contact and is nifty and elusive. Sidesteps defenders, avoids the trash and creates yardage when seemingly nothing is available. Runs low to the ground with terrific balance and body control. Strings several moves together over the course of a single run and makes multiple defenders miss. Solid receiver out of the backfield.

Negatives: At times does too much East/West running and dancing around the backfield rather than taking it up the field. Easily brought down at the point of attack by a single opponent.

Analysis: James is an all-purpose skill player who can be used in a variety of roles and lined up at a variety of positions. He's quick, fast and can be deadly in the open field. James will have a place in the NFL as a third-down back/situational runner who's also asked to handle return duties.

Projection: 2-3