Bill Dickinson-Flickr
No. 5 Alfred Morris: I predicted last season Morris would be a top performer and he was. This year I am picking the powerful Running Back of the Washington Redskins. Morris truly is something special. Morris had 1,275-yards, 9-touchdowns and 4.6-yards per carry. Morris lead the Washington Offense after a roughed up Robert Griffin struggled. This Pensacola native has been an RB1 option since entering the league in 2012. With the additions to the passing game, a healthy RGIII and the return of the read option, Morris should be at the top of his game and be one of the best Running Backs in the league.
No. 4 Matt Forte: The Chicago Bears take pride in their underrated Running Back Matt Forte. Forte carried the load and had the second highest number of yards on this list with 1,339 with 9-rushing Touchdowns. With the passing-attack of the Bears, Forte should have no problem in dominating defenses. Remember this is a list ranking the best going into this season as far as performance, not best overall. Still Forte is pretty high and will continue to solidify his status as a top back. Not to mention the NFL has Forte ranked as the number one receiving back. It is safe to say Forte will get his.
No. 3 Adrian Peterson: Peterson is no doubt the second best Back but the Minnesota Vikings do not have enough options in the passing attack to give Peterson big numbers similar to the 2,000-yard season of 2012. Granted, when Peterson had that season the Vikings’ passing-attack was lackluster at best. Due to 8 men in the box looks and all out blitzes, Peterson had 1,266-yards and 10-touchdowns. The 2012 MVP was not able to carry the team to wins. Peterson is always a top-2 back but for performance this season, I rank him 3rd. Still a fair ranking.
No 2. Jamaal Charles: Charles is pretty much the Kansas City Chiefs entire Offense. His average per carry last season was 5. An impressive number and Charles has proven himself as a Running Back and pass catcher. Charles has everything teams dream of in a Running Back. Lightning speed, acceleration, and catching. Charles truly lights up the field everywhere he goes. Charles had 19 total Touchdowns. 12 rushing and 7 receiving and without Charles, the Chiefs don’t make the playoffs.
No. 1 Lesean McCoy: Will the real slim shady please stand up? Maybe not slim shady but the second shadiest person in terms of avoidance and quickness. The Philadelphia Eagles‘ Running Back has been compared to the Barry Sanders in terms of quickness and the running ability of Terrell Davis. McCoy had 1,607-yards leading the league and averaged 5.1 per carry including 9 rushes for 20+ yards. The Chip Kelly offense loves McCoy and I am sure McCoy is loving it. With open holes and the amazing ability of McCoy, the Eagles on paper are just insanely good. Watching McCoy carry the load whether it is in the rain or snow, is awesome. Lesean McCoy will easily be the top rusher in the league next year and at the least top 3. Without a doubt McCoy and Peterson are nearly tied for best running backs in the league overall.
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Josh Gantt is a Writer for Couch Rider Report. Follow us on twitter or Facebook
