Isaiah Spiller is one of the most talented running backs in college football. He plays for Texas A&M and has been a key contributor for the Aggies since his freshman year. He has rushed for over 1,000 yards in each of the last two seasons and has earned All-SEC honors. He is also projected to be a high draft pick in the 2022 NFL Draft.
But many fans wonder if Isaiah Spiller has any relation to another famous running back: CJ Spiller. CJ Spiller was a star at Clemson and a first-round pick in the 2010 NFL Draft. He played for five teams in eight seasons and was a Pro Bowler in 2012. He wore the same number as Isaiah: 28.
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According to multiple sources, Isaiah Spiller and CJ Spiller are not related by blood or marriage. They just happen to share a common surname and a passion for running the football.
However, Isaiah Spiller does have a family connection to Texas A&M. His father, Fred Spiller, played tight end for the Aggies from 1999 to 2000. Fred Spiller was a teammate of current Texas A&M head coach Jimbo Fisher, who was the offensive coordinator at the time.
The inspiration: Isaiah Spiller admires CJ Spiller
Even though they are not related, Isaiah Spiller has a lot of respect and admiration for CJ Spiller. He grew up watching his highlights and dreaming of playing in the NFL. He chose to wear number 28 as a tribute to his idol.
According to sitename 12th Man Foundation, Isaiah Spiller said:
> “I always watched C.J. growing up. I loved how he played the game. I loved his speed and how he could make people miss in space. I always wanted to be like him.”
Isaiah Spiller also said that he met CJ Spiller once at a camp and that he was very humble and nice.
The comparison: Isaiah Spiller vs CJ Spiller
Isaiah Spiller and CJ Spiller have some similarities in their playing styles. They are both fast, elusive and versatile backs who can catch passes out of the backfield. They also have some differences in their physical attributes and college careers.
Here is a comparison of their stats and achievements:
| Category | Isaiah Spiller | CJ Spiller |
| — | — | — |
| Height | 6’1″ | 5’11” |
| Weight | 215 lbs | 200 lbs |
| College | Texas A&M | Clemson |
| Seasons | 3 | 4 |
| Games | 36 | 52 |
| Rushing yards | 2,997 | 3,547 |
| Rushing touchdowns | 25 | 32 |
| Receiving yards | 465 | 1,420 |
| Receiving touchdowns | 3 | 11 |
| Kick return yards | 0 | 2,052 |
| Kick return touchdowns | 0 | 7 |
| All-conference honors | First-team (2020), Second-team (2021) | First-team (2009) |
| All-American honors | None | First-team (2009) |
| Awards | None | ACC Player of the Year (2009), ACC Offensive Player of the Year (2009), Doak Walker Award finalist (2009) |
As you can see, Isaiah Spiller has been more productive as a rusher than CJ Spiller, but CJ Spiller has been more explosive as a receiver and a returner. Both have been recognized as some of the best players in their conferences.
The future: Isaiah Spiller and CJ Spiller in the NFL
Isaiah Spiller has declared for the 2022 NFL Draft and is expected to be one of the top running backs available. He has been compared to players like Alvin Kamara, Nick Chubb and Dalvin Cook by some draft analysts.
CJ Spiller last played in the NFL in 2017 with the Kansas City Chiefs. He retired from football in 2018 and joined Clemson’s coaching staff as an unpaid graduate assistant. He is currently pursuing his master’s degree in athletic leadership.
Both Isaiah Spiller and CJ Spiller have made their mark on college football and have inspired many fans with their skills and personalities. They may not be related, but they are both great representatives of the number 28.
