05-23-2017, 08:32 AM
(05-21-2017, 07:53 PM)BFritz21 Wrote: NFL Network had a segment called Splitting The Touches where it goes through backfields and predicts how many carries each of the main backs will get per game.
Hill- 3
Gio- 11
Mixon- 20
First off, I still think Hill gets cut before the season starts, but I was happy with him only getting three carries if he stays because he has become a ballerina in the backfield and doesn't hit the holes.
I think our backfield has a hell of a lot more touches than 34 a game just between Bernard, Mixon, and whoever our third back is because we won't want to wear Mixon down, but he's a great back, so I don't see him taking a lot of big hits, and I also think he'll get 5 or so catches in the pass game. I see him getting 25 touches a game, although I do think Marvin might be too cautious with him in not wanting to run him into the ground, which I don't think is a possibility at 25 a game considering he's not a pounder. He can lower his pads and pound if need-be, but he's just great when he gets a bit of space, so he doesn't need to be a pounder.
Gio with 10 might make sense except I think we'll have the ball a lot more and so he'll have a lot more opportunities. I also think see him in the slot a lot more as a receiver and we'll use him a lot more in the scat-back type, sort of in a Darren Sproles type role.
Am I right in thinking that this "expert" evaluation was off?
Why would they cut Hill this year when he's still on his rookie contract, has nearly 3000 yards rushing in 3 seasons, leads the nfl in touchdowns since coming into the league, and Gio is rehabbing a torn ACL and Mixon has yet to take a snap???
Hill will most likely see double digit carries along with Mixon until at least Gio can prove that he is ready.
