The Other Side of the Three-Backs Coin

Chris Brown, not the “Run It!” before I hit Rihanna so we can “Kiss Kiss” and make-up one, but rather the whiter, balder and saner version who writes for Inside the Bills has written an article about the benefits of having three backs in Buffalo. In Brown’s article it is suggested that having Fred Jackson along with the introduction of Dominic Rhodes will keep Marshawn Lynch fresh and healthy down the stretch. While this is a well-made point, I worry that while we have dodged QB-controversy for the year perhaps we are wading into a similar swamp filled with too many key backs.

Now, I have never heard of a team having too many running backs. We all know the position comes with bangs, bruises, and season or career-ending injuries. What I am suggesting is that it may be possible to have too many premier running backs. Until last season I don’t think many people would have put Fast Freddy in the “premier” category. But now? I would take that argument to the mat any day. Fred Jackson is a very quality back who is more than capable of stepping up for Marshawn through the first four weeks of the season as Lynch serves his suspension. In fact, I would say that there are days when I would have Jackson taking more carries than Lynch. And I know I’m not alone there.

As for Dominic Rhodes, I don’t think most would argue that he should fall into the premier category either. Though in many ways his recent performance with the Colts reminds me of Jackson.  Like Jackson, who a year ago managed to rush for almost 600 yards at 4.4 per carry while carry splitting time with Lynch, Rhodes also put up solid numbers sharing time in the Colts backfield with Joseph Addai.  Even though Rhodes, at 30, is a couple of years older than Jackson he may be ready to put up break-out numbers. We’ve seen it before in older backs. Priest Holmes, for example, put together his best years rushing in the 1,500 yard zone just as he was reaching thirty.

I’m not predicting a running back controversy coming here. I just hope that Jauron and the staff realize the depth of talent that they have with these three guys and are able to manage expectations (and carries) appropriately.