O'Brien describes starting RB Haynes as 'a slasher'

N.C. State’s stunning decision to move redshirt freshman Dean Haynes from the secondary to tailback was a big topic as Wolfpack coach Tom O’Brien addressed the media Wednesday. O’Brien again said the staff wasn’t happy with its running game as camp progressed, which is why they looked back to how well Haynes had done on the scout team last fall.

Asked to describe Haynes’ running style, O’Brien said,“He’s a slasher. It’s pretty decisive when he makes his cut. He puts his foot in the ground and he heads toward the goal line.

“That’s what we like. He’s been very good holding onto the football. he’s a tough individual. He can bounce off tackles and break tackles. And if he gets a chance we’re going to find out if he can run away from anybody.”

O’Brien said true freshman Mustafa Greene, a top recruit from Irmo, S.C., will also play Saturday against Western Carolina. He said Curtis Underwood was the No. 3 back.