Expectations For Daryl Richardson
Aug 17, 2013; St. Louis, MO, USA; St. Louis Rams running back Daryl Richardson (26) gains 14 yards against the Green Bay Packers during the first half during the first half at the Edward Jones Dome. Mandatory Credit: Scott Rovak-USA TODAY Sports
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On Monday, Jeff Fisher ended the speculation and named Daryl Richardson as the starter at running back. Although this was expected, it’s now official. So what can we expect from Daryl Richardson.
More flexibility on offense
Steven Jackson will go down as one of the greatest Rams running backs along with Eric Dickerson and Marshall Faulk. The issue with Steven Jackson was he was a bruiser as a running back. That has a value in the NFL. However, with the Rams wanting to go to a no huddle type of offense, Richardson gives Sam Bradford a playmaker to go to in the running and passing game. If the passing game is on fire, throw in a draw play to Richardson and with his speed, he can pick up 5 to 6 yards. Throw him a swing pass to the outside and get him in space to make a play.
Be fearless between the tackles
For a 5’10” 206 lbs running back, it might be difficult to have the confidence to put your head down and get 2 or 3 yards for the first down. Daryl Richardson will have to be fearless between the tackles for him to be successful. Rams linebacker James Laurinaitis is already convinced he is:
"“You can tell running the ball, he’s the same,” said Rams linebacker James Laurinaitis, who chases Richardson every day on the practice during training camp. “He’s attacking it. He’s explosive to the edge. He’s really a load to hit. He doesn’t look like it, but he’s a strong kid.”"
Last year, Richardson was able to go between the tackles without a problem. But he only average 6 carries per game last year. He will be getting at least 15 to 20 carries per game every week. When he is sore and doesn’t feel 100%, will he still be willing to get those 2 yards for a first down knowing he is going to take a big hit? I don’t know yet. That’s the beauty of football being around the corner, we’ll know soon enough if he is up to the challenge.
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