I’m tracking everything related to Mike Hart, my favorite Michigan running back ever.
Too many running backs - it’s a nice problem | The News-Sentinel - Fort Wayne IN
The back who made the most impact last week, however, was Hart. A star at the University of Michigan, Hart wasn’t drafted until the sixth round, where the Colts were both surprised and pleased to find him available.In his Colts’ debut, Hart carried four times, springing loose for runs of 14, 19, 11 and nine yards. He also caught three passes for 28 yards. Granted, Hart was facing the Redskins’ third-string defense. But his speed, burst and energy caught coach Tony Dungy’s attention.
“Mike ran and did everything in the game just about as he’s done in practice, and it really wasn’t surprising when you watch him practice and watch him work,” Dungy said. “We felt he would have a good game, and he did everything that he was called on to do.”
Hart knows he has a lot to prove, especially with the skepticism around the league about his speed and size (5-foot-9, 206 pounds).
“I was happy with the way I played, but I know I can do a lot of things better,” Hart said. “I just have to come out and play as well as I can and try not to make mistakes. It’s up to the coaches and Mr. Polian after that.”
Dungy’s words this week indicate that Hart has made the right moves so far. Dungy agreed with a reporter who suggested Hart might fit the mold of Tampa Bay’s compact but tough Warrick Dunn.
