Running Game in 2022

[toffee]

Boring off season, let's talk about our running game for the coming season?

We have Carson, who may retire. Then there's Penny, he was a force to be reckoned with in the last few games in 2021. We also spent a 2nd round pick on Walker, who was good at yards after contact. Then there's Dallas and Homer as our third down backs. Problems here, Penny hasn't play a complete season, and didn't show much running straight up between the tackles, Walker didn't show much on pass blocking. Both Homer and Dallas are quite limited.

Our OL 2022 is quite different from OL2021, a pair of new bookends both 'might' need work on their run blocking, we also have a new center, and new OL coach, change of scheme to zone blocking came as package.

If we couldn't get our running game going, Geno or Lock will suffer. What do you predict that our running game will do?

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[Jerhawk]

Great thread discussion Toffee!

I'm really excited to see Kenneth Walker, and I hope Penny can pick up where he left off last season. That could be a great one two punch coming out of the backfield.

I'm curious to see how Cross and Lucas do in run blocking, considering they both came from the Mike Leach air raid system, and they aren't really known for run blocking. It'll probably be more stretch concepts like how the Rams run, rather than the usual read option, power run game we've seen here the past decade.

Behind Penny and Walker should be Homer on 3rd downs (unless Walker can develop in pass blocking) and Dallas as 4th string. Both Homer and Dallas can help on special teams as well.

On paper, this team should be able to run the ball, but teams may be loading up the box a lot more daring Lock or Smith to throw, so play action will be crucial to get the defense to back up some.

 

[TeamoftheCentury]

The running game? Are you kidding me? One of the bright spots especially with attention to OL. Walker is going to be the main horse. Hopefully Penny continues his recent ways.

 

[Chawker]

One thing our backs should work on is pass blocking, its a hidden trait that will pay big dividends down the road.

 

[toffee]

One thing our backs should work on is pass blocking, its a hidden trait that will pay big dividends down the road.

Homer has been really good at it, Penny shown willingness and a few good blocks. New guy Walker ??

 

[Sonichound16]

I am pretty stoked to see what the 1-2 punch of Penny and Walker can do. I was actually chanting Walker's name during the draft when it was their pick. I recall reading somewhere that Lock's stats on play action pass attempts were pretty outstanding so if Penny picks up where he left off and Walker is able to perform it may not be as bad as expected. I can't find where I got that info though so maybe some of you stat guys have it.

 

[toffee]

I am pretty stoked to see what the 1-2 punch of Penny and Walker can do. I was actually chanting Walker's name during the draft when it was their pick. I recall reading somewhere that Lock's stats on play action pass attempts were pretty outstanding so if Penny picks up where he left off and Walker is able to perform it may not be as bad as expected. I can't find where I got that info though so maybe some of you stat guys have it.

For our 2022 offense to enjoy success, a potent running game is a must.

 

[SNDavidson]

Actually, Geno was killer on play action last year, and in the quick game.

 

[pittpnthrs]

Actually, Geno was killer on play action last year, and in the quick game.

Which equated to one win against the worst team in the league.

 

[Boohman14]

Well, we have two backs that are a threat to score from anywhere on the field! A WR in Metcalf that is also a big YAC threat. I think Walker can be coached up to block but he's also a pretty good receiver and may not be used to block much. Homer is our best blocking back and is a pretty decent all around back for short yardage and screens. Running back should be a great position group for us but I still fear the injury bug from that group.

 

[BASF]

Easily the most exciting aspect of the 2022 season. I fully expect that Chris Carson will not play this season. If he does, it will be a testament to his toughness and perseverance. I would consider it stupid to the highest degree, but a testament nonetheless.

I love the Walker pick more than anyone else that we drafted. He is a baller and capable of carrying us deep in the playoffs. The only question mark is whether or not he can throw himself into being good at blitz pick up.

Penny's question mark is of course durability. If he stays healthy he is capable of being a 1500 yard, 10 TD back.

I do not doubt that our younger line will have a bit of growing pains to start, but I liked the videos I have seen of Andy Dickerson working with them. I have high hopes for them. If we go with the running game style of the Rams we will be very productive.

 

[toffee]

If we could average 150+yards on the ground, we will be quite entertaining to watch. Once our running game is established, our QBs will have just that bit more time to throw.

 

[Chawker]

I'd trade a 150 yard back for a 88 yard back as long as he got 4 extra first downs a game. First downs keep the offense on the field and the clock moving.

 

[toffee]

I'd trade a 150 yard back for a 88 yard back as long as he got 4 extra first downs a game. First downs keep the offense on the field and the clock moving.

I was hoping at least 150 yards rushing per game, hopefully 170+ yards, to be handled by all 4 backs, with Penny and Walker perhaps 40%/35% or 40%/40% of those snaps. Rest by Homer/Dallas, jet swaps, QB etc. And yes, first down keeps the offense on field, and successful 3rd down conversions too.

170 yards per game puts us at 2014 level, 150 yards at 2013 level.

 

[m0ng0]

I hope it's good, it's what Pete wants to be the focal point of our offense. If it's not good than this will not be a good season. However with Penny and our newest addition I hope it's gonna be good

 

[Chawker]

I'm never impressed with those zone runners that press heels and then look for daylight, I'm old school where you have five stout mean lineman who love to dish out a good helping of were going to run your ass over. Run it north and south, just try an stop us.

 

[Chawker]

On my team I'd fine the cheepest QB in the league along with WRs and put the money into OL and RBs and defense. I might only score 17 points per game, but you can bet your sweet ass I'd own the time of possession.

 

[onanygivensunday]

I was hoping at least 150 yards rushing per game, hopefully 170+ yards, to be handled by all 4 backs, with Penny and Walker perhaps 40%/35% or 40%/40% of those snaps. Rest by Homer/Dallas, jet swaps, QB etc. And yes, first down keeps the offense on field, and successful 3rd down conversions too.

170 yards per game puts us at 2014 level, 150 yards at 2013 level.

Let's look more closely at the numbers during the height of the team's elite years and focus on the contribution that Russ made to the rushing stats.

In 2012, the team averaged 160 yd/game (3rd overall). Russ averaged 30 yd/game. Without Russ, the delta = 130 yd/game.

In 2013, the team averaged 135 yd/game (4th overall). Russ averaged 35 of those. Delta = 100 yd/game.

In 2014, the team averaged 170 yd/game (1st overall). Russ accounted for 55 of those. Delta = 115 yd/game.

In 2015, the team averaged 140 yd/game (3rd overall). Russ, 35 of those. Delta = 105 yd/game.

Without Russ' contribution, the team's rushing average/game would be more the average of the league, ranking the team more in the #14 to #18 overall instead of in the Top 5.

Hoping for 150 yd/game without the benefit of a running QB is fairly unrealistic. Not saying it can't happen just that it's a stretch.

 

[GemCity]

Competition at RB now and not a “waiting his turn” thing? I see Penny killing it as our #1 back.
That is, if he can stay on the field.

 

[pittpnthrs]

Seattle will be running into stacked boxes the entire season. Opposing defenses will be begging Seattle to throw against them.