Similar to the previous article, but focusing on the running game. In season 2, it was a solid season for running backs as offenses were still figuring out their schemes and utilizing the RB more. During Season 3, passing records were shattered while little to no rushing records were accomplished.
As Season 3 concludes, let us take a look at the data between both seasons and determine if the running game in the league are improving.
| Season 2 | Season 3 | Result |
Rushing yards | 14053 | 13191 | Decline |
Rush Attempts | 2862 | 2694 | Decline |
Rushing TDs | 173 | 170 | Decline |
Fumbles | 19 | 22 | Decline |
Yards per carry | 4.91 | 4.90 | Decline |
Yards per game | 97.59 | 73.28 | Decline |
TDs per game | 1.20 | 0.94 | Decline |
800 + Rushers | Four | One | Decline |
1k Rushers | One | 0 | Decline |
Nearly 1k less rushing yards.
Almost 200 fewer carries. 3 less rushing touchdowns. Keep in mind, there were 144 games in season 2 vs 180 games in season 3.
Increase of fumbles but very similar.
YPC is similar but a very slight decrease in Season 3.
24 yards less per game.
There was a 1k rusher and 4 800+ yard rushers in Season 2 vs only 1 800+ rusher in season 3.
Nothing improved in the run game. Every statistic took a decline. I think it has to do with a mixture of offenses becoming more pass-happy as well as defenses getting better at stopping the run. I was honestly thinking rushing stats would’ve increased since we introduced the titans this season along with other run heavy teams like the Browns and Ravens.
Season 4 Predictions
I think rushing statistics will continue to decline with the league being a pass first league. I could be wrong but I don’t see it. If anything, running backs will continue to thrive in the receiving game.