[BigBadBuc]

It seems to me that running backs are becoming expendable when the price tag gets too high. The NFL teams seem to have the opinion that you can replace a running back much easier than a good left tackle or a corner back. Good pass rushers are difficult to replace but running backs are not. Good offensive lineman can make an average running back look pretty good.

Running backs are instinctive players that use their natural abilities for most of their success. Lineman and corners have to learn technique and schemes. Some adapt and some don't because there is a lot more thinking and learning involved.

Just a thought....


BBB

[Gotham Dark Knight]

Originally Posted by BigBadBuc

It seems to me that running backs are becoming expendable when the price tag gets too high. The NFL teams seem to have the opinion that you can replace a running back much easier than a good left tackle or a corner back. Good pass rushers are difficult to replace but running backs are not. Good offensive lineman can make an average running back look pretty good.

Running backs are instinctive players that use their natural abilities for most of their success. Lineman and corners have to learn technique and schemes. Some adapt and some don't because there is a lot more thinking and learning involved.

Just a thought....


BBB

maybe compact guys with 4.5-4.6 speed grow on trees and 300 lb linemen with 5.0 speed don't?...just a thought...

[BigBadBuc]

Gotham,

I don't know where they come from but there are an awful lot of talented runners. I guess you notice them more because of all the publicity. Left tackles are usually not front page news.

The Denver Broncos are a prime example of a team that puts just about any running back behind that offenssive line and they succeed.

I'm not sure that 4.5 speed for a running back necessarily translates into success anymore than a lineman running a 5.0.

It will be interesting to see what the Colts do to replace Edgerin James. His style of running may be hard to replace.

BBB

[Mid-depth_Reporter]

I will agree a little bit on this. I've always thought the Denver offensive line could produce a good running back. They're just that effective at pushing a pile. But, on the other side, I do believe a running back has to be talented to take advantage of that.

Terrell Davis ran for 2,000+ yards one year behind that line. He was a good running back. Clinton Portis also had a nice season behind that. Then, Portis moved to Washington and put up good numbers again. So, Portis is a talented running back.

On the same token though, the lines are where the games are fought. An offensive line also makes a quarterback better as well. If you don't have time to throw, well, then you're the talented David Carr, being sacked a gazillion times a game. If you have a good offensive line, then, even your average quarterback and succeed a little.

The trenches is where everything starts, on both sides of the ball.