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New York Times Fifth Down Blog: No.1 RB Trent Richardson
1. Trent Richardson, Alabama (5-9, 228) There are several impressive components to Trent Richardson’s game. His balance and agility combined with his strength make him a rare commodity among backs of his range of 220-230 pounds. He has the footwork and balance of a back 15-20 pounds lighter. And that balance is what makes him…
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New York Times Fifth Down Series: No. 2 RB Doug Martin
2. Doug Martin, Boise State (5-9, 223) Martin reminds me of Ray Rice in the respect that he’s not abundantly fast once he reaches the second or third level, but his initial burst is top notch. He consistently defeats the angles of defenders as he enters and exits a hole because they misjudge his quickness,…
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New York Times Fifth Down Series: No.3 RB Lamar Miller
3. Lamar Miller, running back, Miami (5-10, 212) Lamar Miller is a potential Pro Bowl back. He’s at the sweet spot in terms of height, weight, speed and acceleration. He runs with patience and balance, and he protects the ball. He understands how to stay close to his blocks until an opening develops, and like…
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RB David Wilson’s Vision: Part II – The Low Lights
As I explained yesterday, Vision is often poorly defined as an abstract, catchall intangible that is vital to the success of a ball carrier. Vision should be something we actively try to define and despite its intuitive characteristics I believe there are major components of the skill set that running backs learn as late as…
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RB David Wilson’s Vision: Part I Raw Skill in Action
To come to be you must have a vision of Being, a Dream, a Purpose, a Principle. You will become what your vision is. – Peter Nivio Zarlenga Vision is a magical term. Even in the world of business, visionary leaders are seen as semi-fictional characters. For all of his petulance, coldness, and cruelty…