Ranking the running back tandems
by Josh Gaier
In the NFL today teams are switching to two-committee running back system opposed to the conventional one running back system. Ironically, it’s not hard to believe that teams that utilize the two running back systems generally have a better, balanced rushing attack. Below are a list of the top five rushing tandems in the league based on potential and past production.
Number in parentheses indicates ranking per New Era Scouting’s RB Rankings
1) Jacksonville Jaguars: Maurice Jones-Drew (22) and Fred Taylor (11)
The Jaguars employ the most tenacious running back duo in the NFL. Both backs are complete backs who have the speed and acceleration to take it the distance, but at the same time have the strength and physical mentality to run over defenders and earn the tough yards to keep the chains moving. Taylor is explosive, patient, intelligent, runs with exceptional vision, and does an excellent job bouncing the ball outside. Jones-Drew on the other hand is arguably the best pound-for-pound player in the NFL. He has lighting speed, elusiveness, acceleration, and the strength of a bull despite his small size. He is the epitome of a back that can make you miss then lower his shoulders and run over you. Together, the duo of balanced, play-making backs bodes well for a Jaguar offense that relies on physical play — starting with the running game.
2) Minnesota Vikings: Adrian Peterson (3) and Chester Taylor (35)
Last year, as a rookie, Adrian Peterson displayed brilliance as he smashed records and posted two 200-yard rushing campaigns. Using his combination of speed, instincts and power, Peterson provides the Vikings running game with a dynamic threat. However, although usually unnoticed, Taylor adds some zing to the backfield. Taylor is shifty, quick and elusive, but he does possess the ability to run with power. Another plus about Taylor is that he’s a great receiver out of the backfield and always provides the Vikings quarterbacks with an extra receiving option. Collectively, this tandem is the Vikings offense today, as the passing game has been lethargic. The combination of size, power, speed and balance has boosted the Vikings’ offense from relying solely on the defense into a legitimate contender.
3) Pittsburgh Steelers: Willie Parker (6) and Rashard Mendenhall (38)
Although Rashard Mendenhall has never played a down in the NFL, he was highly touted coming out of college. He’s a bruising back who fits perfectly as the thunder to speedy Willie Parker’s lightning. Parker has already established himself as an elite running back in the NFL who is able to break off long runs. When you pair a slashing, speedy back like Parker with a thumbing, powerful back like Mendenhall, you are destined for success in your running game. The Steelers running game should continue to be atop the NFL.
4) New Orleans Saints: Deuce McAllister (28) and Reggie Bush (23)
If this duo is able to stay healthy, they can easily climb up the ranks. McAllister is a power back who makes his living running over people and moving the chains. However, he can also bounce it outside and hit the edge, but his focal point is running between the tackles. Bush is the exact opposite. He is electric and provides the Saints’ offense with an instant spark when he’s on the field. In addition, Bush is elusive, has incredible speed, excellent cut-back ability and allows the Saints’ offense to be versatile when he’s on the field. The diversity of the running styles of McCallister and Bush provides the offense with the ability to control the tempo of the game.
5) Washington Redskins: Clinton Portis (15) and Ladell Betts (33)
Clinton Porits has an identity around the NFL as an exceptional back, and Betts yarned a similar identity when he filled in for the injured Portis two years ago. Although Betts isn’t used as much as he should be, he still provides the Redskins with a formidable, downhill-runner as a backup. Portis offsets Betts’ power with remarkable speed, acceleration and change-of-direction skills. In addition, he has good instincts, great vision and isn’t afraid to lower his shoulder. Although Portis is the more complete back out of the two and gets most of the carries, this tandem will strike fear into any opposing defense, regardless of which running back is lined up behind the quarterback.
Honorable mention: Dallas Cowboys