Should a lifelong tailback be willing to switch to fullback? To James Aldridge, it’s not even a a question. He is willing to play some fullback for the Irish, and he should be. After all, he has gotta get on the field somehow.

Aldridge was the 5 star tailback that never was. Good ole’ #27 on Rivals 2006 top 100. Ranked ahead of studs like Demarco Murray, LeSean McCoy, and Knowshon Moreno. A nicely wrapped package of speed, power, and agility. Charlie’s first “big time” recruit, and a guy that most fans thought would contribute from Day 1. Whether it be injuries, or just a vast overrating, Aldridge never did. He never showed the game-breaking ability, never a WOW! move. He did show some strength and speed, however, it was the strength to fold paper, and the speed to outrun a Moped. Granted, his offensive line didn’t help him pile up the stats, but he wasn’t even winning the war with his ‘mates for the bulk of the carries.

So, forward to ‘09. Aldridge has been serviceable at times, and a consummate team player. But it is obvious his skills will not translate into those of a big time tailback. So Weis has given him an out. Line up and play fullback in certain sets. While his strength and speed combination may not be What The Dr. Ordered for a halfback, his talents may indeed make him a dangerous fullback.

Position switches can be the key to unlocking talent. Chris Zorich turned from a step-too-slow linebacker into an All-America nosetackle. Running quarterbacks with accuracy issues turn into studs at wide receiver. This reasoning can lead you to believe that a moderately-talented tailback could become a supremely-talented fullback. Taking a guy with tailback skills and letting him hurt the opposition from an unexpected spot (As guys like Bettis and Marc Edwards have done in the past.) is a way to stay a step ahead of the competition.

So go ahead, James. Line up at the unsexy running back position with pride. Take the chance to make people remember that a fullback can still do some damage. Take one last chance to make an impact for the Irish.