Biography: Junior college transfer who immediately broke into the starting lineup at Mississippi State and proceeded to set several school records. Senior rushing totals included 193 attempts/1,189 yards/10 touchdowns with 20 receptions/187 yards/1 touchdown as a receiver. Awarded all-conference honors in 2011. Junior numbers included 186/968/19 on the ground with 10/106/1 as a receiver.

Positives: Sturdy interior ballcarrier who runs with good vision and quickness. Patiently waits for blocks to develop, actively uses them everywhere on the field and works hard in every aspect. Displays a burst through the hole, turns it on in a single step and shows the ability to beat defenders into the open field. Quickly regains his balance off the initial hit, picks up a good deal of yardage off initial contact and is a tough ballcarrier who keeps his feet moving up the field. Solid receiver out of the backfield. Gets out front and effectively blocks when required.

Negatives: Not a creative runner who can string several moves together during a single carry or make defenders miss. Lacks the speed to run to daylight.

Analysis: Ballard turned in two very productive seasons at Mississippi State and is a ballcarrier who shows the ability to get into the end zone. He offers a versatile and complete game and Ballard is a prospect who will positively impact an NFL roster this fall.

Projection: 3rd