Running Backs and Spotfire

You know, it's easy to get emotional about running backs. So I've added a Spotfire screenshot here. It brings an analytical view to this process, which I think can be a big help. Average points per game is shown vertically. And the more consistent they are, the further right they are on the chart.

Spotfire is interactive and it's also fun. You should try it. Go ahead and take the Spotfire test drive.

http://spotfire.tibco.com/community/testdrive/

I've also provided some commentary in the video below about some of the RBs and why I placed them the way I did.

1. Brian Westbrook, PHI – The Spotfire analytics show that he is more consistent than Adrian Peterson. The truth is that my top three running backs are so close, you can’t go wrong with any of them.

2. Adrian Peterson, MIN – He is getting pushed hard on his own team by Chester Taylor. This gives a player a different mindset than when he’s totally secure as “the man.”

3. LaDanian Tomlinson, SD – He’s still the most talented all-around back in the NFL. But San Diego has big injury questions surrounding Phillip Rivers and Antonio Gates. LaDanian is going to see eight in the box a lot this year.

4. Maurice Jones-Drew, BAL – Love this kid. He’s quick, fast, and explosive. He didn’t get as much love in high school (at De La Salle in the Bay Area) or at UCLA as he should have. He should get plenty after this year in the NFL.

5. Frank Gore, SF – You have to love Frank. He’ll have a good year with Mike Martz. Frank reminds me of Marshall Faulk, but more explosive. I’m going to be mentoring him a little this year. The league has discovered how good he is, so now he’s got a bull’s eye on both sides of his jersey. He will be carrying a big load once again for San Francisco.

6. Marshawn Lynch, BUF – The Cal kid can be a beast. He’s really consistent, and Spotfire shows this. He’ll be great again this year.

10. Laurence Maroney, NE – This man scores touchdowns. He’s got a knack for it.

11. Julius Jones, SEA – Another good mid-round pick at number 11. He’s ready to have a great year in a good system under Holmgren. With Sean Alexander traded, Julius is now “the man.”

16. Steven Jackson, STL – A little low because he’s a big back who runs into people and he gets nicked up. It doesn’t matter how big you are in the NFL, the other guys are big, too.