I wrote a previous article on how several factors came together to help Demarco Murray attain his record breaking 253 yard romp against the Saint Louis Rams. Agreed this was a great performance, but I had in my mind that any good running back might be able to do the same thing if all the stars aligned for them as well . Since then he continues to excel. There are several things Murray is showing us that many great running backs share.
The Cowboy’s running game.
The Cowboys have underperformed in the running game for a long time. Some of the reasons may have been poor offensive line play, questionable play calling, ineffective use of personnel, no commitment to the run, and an inability for any single running back to get into the rhythm of a game. The three headed monster fizzled, the running back by committee faltered, and Felix Jones had trouble staying healthy. The sum total was a running game that didn’t – run.
Kind of mind boggling if you think Dallas has some pretty good running backs–which I do.
What has changed?
The addition of a true blocking full back, Tony Fiametta, and the resigning of Montrae Holland to line up at left guard next to Doug Free.
A greater commitment to the running game. Jason Garret seems to understand that he needs to get the running game going, but I still see him struggle with it.
Injuries to Felix Jones have kept him off the field with the new lineup, so we don’t yet know what he can do under the same conditions. However, Murray has taken advantage of his opportunity and run away with the prize.
What Murray is showing us
Murray has broke out with three good games of 253, 139 yards, and 74 yards. He had limited carries in the 74 yard effort in a loss to the New England Patriots, but had a 9.25 yard average. Why abandon the run when you’re putting up passing yard averages in the run? Only Jason Garrett can tell us that. Add some respectable receiving yards during this three game stretch.
In the fourth game against the Buffalo Bills Murray added another 135 yards rushing for a total of 601 yards over a four game stretch. This is an impressive four game total.
What I really like about Murray is that he runs with patience, vision, power, and speed. He follows his blockers, waits for holes to open, identifies running lanes, breaks tackles, and accelerates quickly.
The patience and vision are the key factors that give me hope. If Murray can continue to do this he will have a long and fruitful career. And the Cowboys will win more games. I like that.
Can Murray be a great back?
Much too early to tell. We need to see his performance week after week. I see too many people drag out the anointing oil after a single break out performance. The same people drag out the boiling tar and feathers the next weekend. Let’s give Murray some time while we watch and hope.
Sources:
Dallas Cowboys Official Site
NFL.com