Running games will be a key factor in the NFC Championship game on Sunday. The Saints have a deadly combo with Deuce and Bush. Reggie Bush has obviously proven to be a versatile back. More importantly, while the rookie standout may not have as many rushing yards as say Indy's Addai, Bush's 565 yards are complimented by the ability to catch and run effectively. Reggie racked up 742 yards receiving with 8 total touchdowns. Even more importantly, Bush is selfless when it comes to his individual stats in favor of team success. That success has come on the heals of Deuce McAllister's punishing 1,000 yard season.
When comparing the backs, 6-1, 232 pound McAllister is substantially larger that his counterpart, the 5-11, 220 Cedric Benson. Benson rambled for only 647 yards and has complained about not getting enough carries. Meanwhile, Thomas Jones managed to gain 1,210 yards and played in every game. According to Terrel Davis, Jones is underrated and underestimated and could have run for 1,700 yards this year if Benson hadn't been lurking. Benson, however, played in the overtime win vs. Seattle last week, indicating increasing confidence in his abilities.
The advantage must go to the Saints though because of the Bush factor. First, he has turned it on in the last part of the season. Second, the Heisman Trophy winner has obvious talent that is beginning to show. He has beefed up slightly since his days at USC (listed at 6-0, 180 for USC and reduced to 5-11, but weighing in at 203 for the Saints), but his strength is still in his agility and speed.
Either way you slice it the ground game and defensive lines will be a key component to a trip to the Superbowl.
1 comment:
where are the babes?
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