Offense at the Halfway Point Part Three: Rushing
A few years ago, the running back position took a massive hit. Teams refused to pay the top-end running back what they were worth—adopting a running back by committee approach, leading to an exodus of the top talent. The NFL brass couldn’t have been more wrong, as the talent that left went on to have one of the best seasons for running backs in recent memory. Part one highlighted the league's use of running backs and how the best offenses feature elite ones. Not every elite running back is on an elite team, but they deserve their time in the spotlight.
Christian McCaffery
Christian McCaffery is currently hands down the best running back in the league. Even though Jonathan Taylor is having a historic season, the 49er doesn’t just rush; he’s a legitimate threat in the passing game. McCaffery ranks ninth in the league for rushing yards with 596, but ranks seventh amongst all players for receiving yards with 626. To add eight total touchdowns, making the former Offensive Player of the Year the best offensive weapon in the league. His 59 snaps in the slot and efficiency make him a borderline slot receiver. McCaffery is having another stellar season, on his way to Canton. The only knock on his career is his storied injury history. Despite all the setbacks, he continues to power his way forward.
Rico Dowdle
Rico Dowdle’s breakout season is genuinely inspiring and miraculous. Dowdle signed a one-year prove-it deal after a solid season with the Cowboys. Dowdle was firmly planted behind starter Chuba Hubbard until an injury sidelined Hubbard in Week Five. The former Cowboy took full advantage of his opportunity, rushing for 206 yards against the Dolphins. Followed up with a revenge game against his former team, rushing for 183 yards. The return of Hubbard led to a split backfield, but Dowdle was the more efficient rusher. Finally, in Week Nine, the former Gamecock was named the starter, rushing for 130 yards against one of the best defenses in the league, the Packers. Dowdle has thoroughly earned his place as the starter and is set to play a significant role in the Panthers' offense moving forward. Dowdle has single-handedly turned the Panthers into one of the best rushing offenses in the league.
Chicago Bears
The Bears' rebuild is finally growing into a flower. Year after year of failed teams and rebuilds, they’ve finally gotten it right. The offense has risen to one of the best in the league, masterminded by offensive genius Ben Johnson. Johnson is no stranger to producing powerful rushing attacks, leading the Lions to support two of the most productive running backs in the league. In Chicago, Johnson is continuing his impressive resume. Spending millions and trading hard for a revamped offensive line to allow the run game to flourish. While a line might be the most essential part of a run game, you still need a running back capable of using the space created for him to the fullest. D’Andre Swift is leading the way with 464 rushing yards, averaging 4.6 yards per carry. Behind Swift is rookie Kyle Monangai, who just had the best game of his career, rushing for 176 yards in his first start. It’s unclear whether this will turn into a committee, but both backs are playing well. We will see, but even quarterback Caleb Williams has shown his wheels with 183 rushing yards. Chicago will look to build upon their budding running game as they settle into Johnson’s scheme. The Bears are an exciting team to watch, as they are capable of some huge games.
Conclusion
The running back resurgence has been a fun one to watch. The running back fits in perfectly with the explosive offense in today’s game. Unfortunately, most running backs have a shelf life, but a select few have been beating this narrative. With the advancement of medical science, their career are beginning to last longer, giving them the chance to develop some truly special talents.
