Gurley (July thread)

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  • July 6, 2018 at 10:31 am #87868
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    from Ranking all 32 NFL backfields: Projections and 2018 outlook

    Mike Clay

    http://www.espn.com/nfl/insider/story/_/id/23974003/ranking-nfl-backfields-2018-projections

    The running back position is not what it used to be.

    With NFL teams passing more than ever and backs expected to catch and pass-protect, focus has shifted from workhorses to committees.

    Here is my ranking of all 32 backfields, with stat projections and what to expect from each unit in 2018.

    …

    2. Los Angeles Rams

    Top three backs: Todd Gurley II, John Kelly, Malcolm Brown

    Projected unit stats: 374 carries, 1,636 yards, 13 TDs; 75 receptions, 660 yards, 3 TDs

    Outlook: Gurley was arguably the league’s best running back last season. He paced all backs in scrimmage yards (2,093) and touchdowns (19), while averaging 4.7 YPC (10th) and 12.3 yards per reception (second). Gurley was on the field for more than 80 percent of the Rams’ offensive snaps when he was active, and that number doesn’t figure to change much in 2018 with Brown and intriguing rookie Kelly, a sixth-round pick, next up on the depth chart.

    July 13, 2018 at 12:35 am #88063
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    July 20, 2018 at 2:32 pm #88329
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    Todd Gurley didn’t miss a single block in pass protection last season

    Cameron DaSilva

    Todd Gurley didn't miss a single block in pass protection last season

    Todd Gurley proved to the world last season that he’s a complete running back, leading the NFL in yards from scrimmage and total touchdowns. He was the Offensive Player of the Year and arguably should have won league MVP, dominating as a runner and receiver.

    One area of his game that doesn’t garner much attention, however, is his pass blocking. To be a complete back, you have to prove to be a capable receiver and a blocker in addition to being a consistent runner. Gurley did exactly that with 64 receptions for 788 yards and as many missed blocks as both you and I.

    That’s right, he missed zero blocks in pass protection, which was tied for first in the NFL. Only Ezekiel Elliott and Matt Forte were perfect in pass protection on at least 60 blocking attempts.

    Pass protection often gets overlooked by fans for running backs, mainly because it’s not an easy stat to compare players with. However, missed blocks almost always lead to sacks, which are often drive-killers for the offense.

    The fact that Gurley can hold up in pass protection and as a receiver proves he can consistently be a three-down back, eliminating the need for a third-down specialist.[

    July 22, 2018 at 2:04 pm #88379
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    Ian Hartitz@Ihartitz
    Todd Gurley out of the backfield is borderline erotic.

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