By Justin Dunk
Canadian running back Chuba Hubbard has accomplished a rare feat in the NCAA — breaking the 2,000-yard rushing mark in a single season.
Affectionately known as the “Canadian Cowboy,” Hubbard captured the attention of North America with his exceptional on-field exploits in 2019.
The Sherwood Park, Alberta native ran for 158 yards in the Texas Bowl on Friday night, though his Oklahoma State Cowboys lost 24-21 to Texas A&M. Hubbard finished the season as the NCAA’s leading rusher with 2,094 yards rushing.
Hubbard led the FBS in rushing yards, rushing yards per game, yards after contact (via Pro Football Focus), all-purpose yards, all-purpose yards per game and rushes of at least 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80 and 90 yards.
“Just my teammates — I made a lot of bonds with these guys. Relationships that will last a lifetime. 2,000 yards is just a number, but those friendships and bonds I’ve made will last forever,” Hubbard said.
Hubbard becomes the second rusher in Oklahoma State school history to reach 2,000 yards. He joins Barry Sanders who rushed for 2,628 yards in 1988 when he won the Heisman Trophy. Sanders congratulated Hubbard after he reached the mark.
Congrats to @Hubbard_RMN and @CowboyFB on reaching the #2000YardClub – I know the team effort it takes to get there. #GoPokes @espn
— Barry Sanders (@BarrySanders) December 28, 2019
The ultra-productive runner rushed for over 100 yards in 12 of 13 games with the Cowboys in 2019 and amassed more than 200 yards in four outings. He was a unanimous All-American selection and earned Big 12 Conference Offensive Player of the Year honours.
Hubbard will soon decide whether to declare for the NFL draft or return to Oklahoma State for his redshirt junior season. The six-foot-one, 207-pound back has traits and skills pro teams would covet.
The 20-year-old knows the decision has to be made soon. The deadline for NCAA athletes to make a final call on entering the NFL draft is January 20, 2020. Hubbard has two years of eligibility left, but would be a sure-fire selection in the NFL draft.
“There’s a lot that factors into it. I’m going to have to talk with my family, friends, everyone, get all the resources,” Hubbard said.
“These next two weeks are going to be specifically me working towards what I’m going to do. In two weeks you guys will find out.”