Changes at RB for 2007

[skins052bgr8]

The combination did not look that well this year due to the injuries to Portis and the lack of prolonged drives at the beginning of the season. The way the playcalling is shaping up and hopefully the continous development of Campbell the offense will sustain more drives in each game and in turn give both backs plenty of touches.

[skinsguy]

Betts is obviously happy with whatever role he has in Washington. He just wants to be a Redskin and signing that 5 year deal proved as such. While saying that, I can't help but to feel Betts' role will greatly increase next year. Let us not forget that when Gibbs had his championship teams, he always carried at least two running backs that could start for any team in the league.

[Beemnseven]

FOX had a stat that I just barely caught -- something about Betts being the only running back in Redskins history with as many rushing yards over three straight games? Anyone else hear that?

[BeastsoftheNFCeast]

Originally Posted by Beemnseven

FOX had a stat that I just barely caught -- something about Betts being the only running back in Redskins history with as many rushing yards over three straight games? Anyone else hear that?

Yea I heard it, it surprised me too

[SouperMeister]

Originally Posted by Beemnseven

FOX had a stat that I just barely caught -- something about Betts being the only running back in Redskins history with as many rushing yards over three straight games? Anyone else hear that?

Fox pointed out that Betts was the first Washington running back to ever have back-to-back 150+ yard rushing games.

[MTK]

Betts now has 933 yards rushing on the season, he should easily crack 1000 now barring injury. He's had a heck of a season!

[Beemnseven]

Wouldn't it be something to see both Portis and Betts go over 1000 yards next season?

Correct me if I'm wrong, but I think the last time that happened was for the Browns in '85 -- Earnest Byner and Kevin Mack.

[MTK]

Originally Posted by Beemnseven

Wouldn't it be something to see both Portis and Betts go over 1000 yards next season?

Correct me if I'm wrong, but I think the last time that happened was for the Browns in '85 -- Earnest Byner and Kevin Mack.

Yeah that was the last time, but it's probably going to happen this year with Vick and Dunn.

[Gmanc711]

A) Portis has very little trade value ( i'd say a low 2nd at best)

B) He would have ran for another 200 yards more than Betts in these three weeks (holes have been HUGE) and thats nothing against Betts because I love the man.

C) It'd be stupid. If we go into next year with Rock Cartwright and Ladell Betts as our 1/2 punch (and trust me I love both these guys) were in deep shit.

I fully expect to see Portis get about 20 carries a game, Betts 15. If we shop Porits, were in big trouble.

[saden1]

Originally Posted by Gmanc711

A) Portis has very little trade value ( i'd say a low 2nd at best)

Not that I would trade him but where did you get that idea from? His contract is hard to swallow but the man is worth a lot more than a 2nd round pick. And last time I checked he is 26 and in his prime.

[drew54]

Originally Posted by Redskinhog1963

jacksonville,atlanta,or maybe even the dolphins?

Jacksonville - Jones Drew
Atlanta - Dunn/Norwood
Miami - Brown

Any other teams you can think of that need a running back, how about the Saints, they could use running backs.

[Beemnseven]

Originally Posted by drew54

Jacksonville - Jones Drew
Atlanta - Dunn/Norwood
Miami - Brown

Any other teams you can think of that need a running back, how about the Saints, they could use running backs.

Yeah, how 'bout the Chargers? They're really hurting for RBs.

[hesscl34]

I cannot image Portis not being a Redskin. If he goes, what about Moss (his best friend), and Taylor? They are all very close. I don't even want to think about it.

[skins052bgr8]

Originally Posted by hesscl34

I cannot image Portis not being a Redskin. If he goes, what about Moss (his best friend), and Taylor? They are all very close. I don't even want to think about it.

I think you have a point in this, not that Portis is in my view is in danger of being traded. The business side of the house and managing the cap plays a role, but the most damaging thing since most players love Portis and what he brings to the team with Skills, leadership, character, and annointed Mr. Redskin by most fans. That would be really damaging to what I see as the Redskins keeping core players together and building it around your playmakers. Especially with the comfort that the two backs have working together it is not selfish with these two.

[SouperMeister]

Originally Posted by hesscl34

I cannot image Portis not being a Redskin. If he goes, what about Moss (his best friend), and Taylor? They are all very close. I don't even want to think about it.

Portis is going nowhere. Throughout all of Gibbs 1.0 glory, we always had two very capable running backs (Riggins/Joe Washington, Riggins/ George Rogers, Rogers/Timmy Smith, Byner/Riggs, Byner/Ervins/Riggs). Remember, both Portis and Betts have each had their share of injuries, so sharing the load should only help. Gibbs should do the right thing and push to give Derrick Dockery a new contract before he becomes a free agent in March. The O-line has been mauling defenses for the past 4 games, and Gibbs should make it a priority to keep them together instead of spending on another glitzy free agent.