The Detroit Lions have a long and storied history in the NFL, and their running backs have played a crucial role in the team's success over the years. From the days of Doak Walker and Barry Sanders to the more recent contributions of Reggie Bush and Kerryon Johnson, Detroit's running backs have always been a force to be reckoned with. In this article, we'll take a look at some of the most notable historical stats for Lions running backs, as well as some of the standout players who helped to make those stats possible.
The Early Years
In the Lions' early years, the team relied heavily on the running game to move the ball down the field. In the 1950s, Doak Walker was the team's star running back, and he remains one of the most beloved players in franchise history. During his seven seasons with the Lions, Walker rushed for 4,415 yards and 37 touchdowns, while also contributing as a receiver and return man. He was a three-time Pro Bowler and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1986.
Another standout running back from the early years of the Lions was Nick Pietrosante. Pietrosante played for the team from 1959 to 1965, and during that time he rushed for 3,933 yards and 28 touchdowns. He was known for his powerful running style and his ability to pick up tough yards in short-yardage situations.
The Barry Sanders Era
Arguably the greatest running back in Lions history, Barry Sanders dominated the NFL in the 1990s. During his 10-year career with Detroit, Sanders rushed for 15,269 yards and 99 touchdowns, while also adding 2,921 receiving yards and 10 receiving touchdowns. He was a 10-time Pro Bowler, a six-time First-Team All-Pro, and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2004.
Sanders' career was filled with incredible highlights and memorable moments, including his 2,053-yard rushing season in 1997, which remains the second-highest total in NFL history. He was known for his elusive running style, his ability to break tackles, and his knack for making defenders miss in the open field.
The Modern Era
In recent years, the Lions have featured several talented running backs who have helped to keep the team competitive. One of the most notable of these players is Reggie Bush, who played for Detroit from 2013 to 2014. During his two seasons with the team, Bush rushed for 1,303 yards and six touchdowns, while also catching 94 passes for 759 yards and three touchdowns. He was known for his speed and agility, as well as his ability to contribute as a receiver out of the backfield.
Another standout running back from the modern era of the Lions is Kerryon Johnson, who played for the team from 2018 to 2020. During his time in Detroit, Johnson rushed for 1,225 yards and eight touchdowns, while also catching 61 passes for 527 yards and three touchdowns. He was known for his vision and patience as a runner, as well as his ability to make plays as a receiver.
The Legacy of Detroit Lions Running Backs
Throughout their history, the Detroit Lions have been fortunate to have some of the greatest running backs in NFL history wear their uniform. From the early years of Doak Walker and Nick Pietrosante to the incredible career of Barry Sanders and the recent contributions of Reggie Bush and Kerryon Johnson, Lions running backs have always been a vital part of the team's success. Whether they were known for their power, their speed, their elusiveness, or their versatility, Detroit's running backs have left an indelible mark on the franchise and on the NFL as a whole.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Detroit Lions have a rich history of running backs who have contributed to the team's success over the years. From the early years of Doak Walker and Nick Pietrosante to the legendary career of Barry Sanders and the recent contributions of Reggie Bush and Kerryon Johnson, Lions running backs have always been a force to be reckoned with. As the team continues to move forward and build for the future, it's clear that the running back position will remain a vital part of the Lions' identity and their pursuit of championship success.
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