Running Backs Must Do More Than Run
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June 6, 2006 by
Few, if any, running backs have ever produced like Marshall Faulk did when he joined the St. Louis Rams in 1999. In 44 games over 3 seasons, Faulk accumulated 6,765 yards from scrimmage and 59 touchdowns. That’s an average of over 150 yards per game and more than a touchdown a game. His receiving numbers alone were comparable to the top receiver for most teams with more than 80 catches each year and 22 touchdowns over that span. It wasn’t a case of the Rams force-feeding Faulk the ball either, he averaged a gaudy 5.4 yards per carry in those seasons and 10.5 yards per reception. He also was named the NFL offensive player of the year three straight times. A true triple-threat, Faulk also gained a reputation for terrific blocking, which enabled quarterback Kurt Warner to put up gaudy numbers as well and the Rams offense became known as “the greatest show on turf”. His last minute block of defensive end Jevon Kearse in the Super Bowl enabled Warner to find Isaac Bruce for the game-winning touchdown.
Why all the love for a San Diego State player? Without going into the “he was almost a Husker” story that most NU fans already know, it’s to point out the value of a triple threat back. It’s also to give some focus to the battle for the starting running back job this fall.
Numerous times last season when Nebraska found itself on the goal line, I’d say “put in Glenn”. That’s because the guy always seemed able to get a few tough yards and as great as Cory Ross was, he wasn’t the best at moving the pile. Of course, my wish arose from sort of an option era mentality. In the good old days, Nebraska would get down near the goal line and pound it in. Rarely did an I-back need to block or catch a pass.
But when Callahan found himself down close, putting in Glenn meant tipping his hand. Glenn was too new to know who to block if a pass were called and likely didn’t know exactly where to be running routes. So pulling Ross meant the defense would know a run was coming. Ross gave NU the element of surprise. Sure Ross, might take it in from a yard out, but he also might catch a pass like he did to save the day in the overtime victory over Iowa State or block to let Taylor throw a TD pass like he did versus Baylor.
So when the Huskers have to choose between the five (or more) candidates for starter at running back next fall, don’t be surprised if the winner isn’t the guy with the best rushing numbers or even the most total yards in the scrimmages. It’s going to be the guy that’s the best total package, the guy that allows the Huskers to call any play without hesitation. If the eventual starter can deliver in all these areas (rushing, blocking, receiving), then we may see the greatest show on FieldTurf
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Lothar Jun 15 06
Great point Steve. I guess my only question would be why wouldn't Callahan put both Ross and Glenn in the backfield at the same time in goalline situations? That just opens up that many more options for the offense and keep the defense completely in the dark.
Arguably, Ross's greatest performance attribute that will be missed this year is his blocking ability. I am confident that Glenn, Lucky, et al will be able to generate rushing yards as well as receiving yards to make up for the loss of Ross but one of them is going to have to step up the blocking game to protect Taylor.