If you are a true football fan, you know that the Detroit Lions have a rich history in the NFL. But when it comes to the running backs, the Lions had a special group of players that dominated the league during the 90s. These running backs brought excitement and energy to the field, and they were a force to be reckoned with. In this article, we will take a closer look at the legendary Detroit Lions running backs of the 90s, and how they changed the game forever.
The Barry Sanders Era
The 90s were dominated by one name when it comes to Detroit Lions running backs- Barry Sanders. Sanders is widely considered as one of the greatest running backs in NFL history, and for a good reason. He had an incredible career with the Lions, spanning from 1989 to 1998. During this time, he rushed for over 15,000 yards and scored 109 touchdowns. Sanders was a three-time NFL rushing champion, a ten-time Pro Bowler, and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2004.
But what made Sanders so special was his unique running style. He had unbelievable speed, agility, and balance, which allowed him to make defenders miss with ease. His quick cuts and spins became his signature move, and he was virtually impossible to tackle. Sanders was a game-changer, and he put the Lions on the map during the 90s.
The Rodney Peete Connection
While Sanders was the star of the show, he wasn’t the only running back that made an impact for the Lions during the 90s. Rodney Peete, the Lions’ starting quarterback from 1989 to 1993, also played a significant role in the team’s success. Peete was known for his scrambling abilities, and he often found himself running for first downs when plays broke down.
But Peete’s connection with Sanders was what made the Lions’ offense so dangerous. Peete had a knack for reading defenses, and he knew when to hand the ball off to Sanders for big gains. The two players had a special chemistry, and they were a nightmare for opposing defenses. Peete’s ability to extend plays with his legs opened up running lanes for Sanders, and the Lions’ offense was one of the most explosive in the league during this time.
The Rise of Barry’s Backup
As great as Sanders was, he couldn’t do it alone. The Lions needed a reliable backup running back to spell Sanders and keep him fresh. That’s where a young player by the name of Cory Schlesinger came in. Schlesinger was drafted by the Lions in the 6th round of the 1995 NFL Draft, and he quickly became a fan favorite.
Schlesinger was known for his hard-nosed running style and his ability to pick up tough yards. He was also an excellent blocker, which made him a valuable asset in pass protection. Schlesinger played for the Lions from 1995 to 2006, and he was a key contributor during the team’s playoff runs in the late 90s.
The End of an Era
The 90s were a magical time for the Detroit Lions and their running backs. Sanders, Peete, and Schlesinger formed a trio that was virtually unstoppable, and they put up some impressive numbers during their time together. But as all good things must come to an end, so did the Lions’ dominance in the 90s.
Sanders shocked the NFL world by retiring in 1999, leaving a void in the Lions’ offense that they were never able to fill. Peete was traded to the Dallas Cowboys in 1994, and Schlesinger retired in 2006 after spending his entire career with the Lions. The 90s may be long gone, but the memories of these legendary Detroit Lions running backs will live on forever.
The Legacy Continues
While the 90s were a special time for the Lions’ running backs, the team has continued to produce talented players at the position. From Kevin Jones to Jahvid Best, the Lions have had their fair share of standout running backs in the years since. But even with all the new talent, the legacy of Sanders, Peete, and Schlesinger still looms large over the franchise.
The Detroit Lions running backs of the 90s changed the game forever. They brought excitement and energy to the field, and they dominated the league like no other. The memories of Sanders’ electrifying runs, Peete’s scrambling abilities, and Schlesinger’s tough running style will never be forgotten. They will forever be a part of Lions history, and their impact on the NFL will be felt for generations to come.
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