07-19-2018, 02:26 PM
(07-19-2018, 08:36 AM)Au165 Wrote: This is always a chicken and the egg type thing to me. Teams that are generally winning games run more because they are trying to keep the clock moving. Teams that are trailing in games tend to have to throw more to catch up. One could argue that the amount of running isn't a predictor of success, but rather a product of success.Dave Lapham always used to throw out some stat about rushing attempts and the Bengals winning trying to associate it with causation, but again if the team is rushing that much it is because they most likely have a lead. It used to drive me nuts!
As to the question, you have to be able to run at least at an average clip to win.
Totally agree with your point, but I'd also say that rushing is still a huge key to offensive success. It's why "establish the run" has become a cliche.
The teams at the top of the rushing standings are there just as much due to a focus on running (and dominance doing so) as it is milking a lead.
Just think of all the times teams have come out pounding us with the run (any Steelers game or playoff game comes to mind).
The training, nutrition, medicine, fitness, playbooks and rules evolve. The athlete does not.
