Can Reggie Bush Really Lead the NFL in Rushing Yards?
Sept 16 2012; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Miami Dolphins running back Reggie Bush (22) breaks a tackle by Oakland Raiders cornerback Shawntae Spencer (36) for a touchdown in the third quarter at Sun Life Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Mayer-US PRESSWIRE
During the offseason, many reports came out about Reggie Bush stating that HE wanted to be the league leader in rushing yards. While many thought Bush’s goal was unobtainable, after two weeks into the young season, it is quite clear that his goal is within reach.
According to NFL.COM, Reggie Bush is currently number two overall in the league as far as rushing yards are concerned (second to CJ Spiller of the Buffalo Bills). Bush was having himself quite a game in the Miami Dolphins season opener against the Houston Texans – until Miami was forced to pass due to a large point deficit (14 carries – 69 yards 4.9 avg). Bush followed that performance up with an even better outing against the Oakland Raiders the following week – 26 carries – 172 yards – 2 touchdowns – 6.6 avg. Bush seems motivated to reach his goal and prove his doubters wrong.
So far on the season Reggie Bush has 40 carries for 241 yards and 2 touchdown (6.0 yard per carry average). http://www.nfl.com/player/reggiebush/2506874/profile
So, can Reggie Bush continue his all pro- like season for the remaining 14 games? Let’s take a look.
Miami has some favorable match ups against weak run defenses this season.
ALL RUSHING STATISTICS TAKEN FROM NFL.COM
Week 3 – NYJ – 130.5 – 22nd
Week 4 – ARI – 102.5 – 14th
Week 5 – CIN – 126.0 – 19th
Week 6 – STL – 129.5 – 21st
Week 8 – NYJ – 130.5 – 22nd
Week 9 – IND – 104.5 – 15th
Week 10 – TEN – 155.0 – 30th
Week 11 – BUF – 134.0 – 24th
Week 12 – SEA – 46.0 – 2nd
Week 13 – NE – 62.5 – 5th
Week 14 – SF – 63.5 – 6th
Week 15 – JAC – 169.5 – 31st
Week 16 – BUF – 134.0 – 24th
Week 17 – NE – 62.5 – 5th
Realistically, Miami only has four contests that could hurt Bush’s chances of reaching his goal. Seattle, New England and San Francisco all have a young and hungry defenses that strive on eating up ball carriers. If Bush can find some open holes, he may be able to bust through for a long gainer. But Bush will have to show off his “between the tackle” type running style in these four contests.
Of course these stats will change over the duration of the season, but Miami has many favorable match ups for Bush to run wild in (10 games overall). During the next 10 weeks, Bush has favorable match ups for his speed and unique skill set to take over a game – realistically giving Miami their best shot to win.
It seems as though every year the league’s leader in rushing yards all have one thing in common – they are the focal point of their offense. Meaning – their offense goes through them. For example, when LaDainian Tomlinson had his record breaking year – that San Diego offense was built around him which led to his success. Last season, Maurice Jones-Drew led the league in rushing yards while being a member of the Jacksonville Jaguars – they weren’t very good. That offense was built for MJD to succeed in.
Take a look at what Miami really has on offense as far as “fire power”. Three good running backs, two decent options at tight end, and two average receivers. Reggie Bush is the focal point of this offense going forward – as he should be. Bush has the ability to not only put up 1,500+ yards rushing, but also 600-700 yards receiving. If Bush can do this, not only will he be atop the list of rushers in the league, he may also be atop the Most Valuable Player list also.
The argument can be made that Bush WILL lead the league in rushing, but there are always those pessimists out there who disagree with everything. There is no question that Bush has the ability to lead the league in rushing yards – not to mention he is actually in the perfect situation to do so. Durability and opportunity are the only things standing in Bush’s way now..
As always, Keep Your Fins Up!!!!