TCU’s best player? Running back Kyle Hicks, says Gary Patterson

Not that there was any question, but TCU coach Gary Patterson made clear this week he believes running back Kyle Hicks is the team’s best player.

“Yeah, he’s our best player,” Patterson said Tuesday at his weekly press conference, asked if the lack of Hicks hurt the offense against Texas Tech. “I said that last week before we played. I think he’s our best player. Again, you have a guy that can be a wide receiver, he can motion out, he understands everything, he’s a great jump-cut guy, he’s got natural speed.”

Hicks is expected to play this week against Baylor after leaving last week’s game in the first series because of an ankle injury. He returned for one series before halftime, but didn’t play after that and finished with four carries for 15 yards and one catch for 15 yards.

The junior from Arlington Martin leads the team in rushing yards (597) and shares the lead for catches (31) and touchdown runs (7).

Patterson said TCU has other players that share some of Hicks’ attributes, but not the experience.

“When you’re young ... the game doesn’t slow down, and finally, the game has slowed down for Kyle,” Patterson said.

Patterson also left little doubt Hicks would be available Saturday at Baylor.

“If he can, I’ll promise you this much – he’ll play,” Patterson said. “He’s a tough dude. He’s all in.”

This story was originally published November 2, 2016 at 4:15 PM with the headline "TCU’s best player? Running back Kyle Hicks, says Gary Patterson."