C.J. Spiller could be change enough for Chiefs running backs
The addition of C.J. Spiller earlier this offseason might have been the only real change the Chiefs needed at running back after all.
Jamaal Charles is the most efficient ball carrier in NFL history, to say nothing of his many awards, All-Pro selections, and Pro Bowl visits. He’s the only true gamebreaker the Kansas City Chiefs have had for some time. He’s gone now and, as of the time of writing this, has not yet found a new team to play for.
Given the loss of Charles, general manager John Dorsey snatched up C.J. Spiller, presumably, to fill the speedy runner-receiver role. Spencer Ware will see time as the lead back also. Looking at those two as the only changes with any impact on the running game, are things really going to be any different?
What won’t be different about the offense
A string of unfortunate injuries to Charles led to the Chiefs leaning on Spencer Ware to keep the run game alive. As the lead running back, Spencer Ware performed better than most expected out of him carrying the ball full time. Last season, Ware finished off with 214 carries for 921 yards and found the end zone 3 times. The yardage is impressive, however, the lack of scoring is a problem. Keep in mind also, Ware contributed in the passing game with 33 catches for 447 yards and 2 scores.
Chiefs Kingdom has spent the greater part of two seasons without Jamaal Charles as the primary running back. Let’s face it, we have gotten used to not seeing Charles out there and to instead see Ware in the backfield. We can also reasonably expect to see similar numbers posted this season. Not too much is really going to change.
Spencer Ware will be the lead back producing stats similar to what he posted last season. He will also continue in his involvement in the passing game. The optimist in me wants to hope that Ware will have a bump up in numbers, but given that his running style is different than what the offensive line is now built for, there won’t be much change.
What will be different about the offense
I am anticipating one change coming down the way for the running offense, that being an emphasis on using C.J. Spiller as a passing target. More often than Charles was. Spiller joined the New Orleans Saints to do what I am expecting him to do in Kansas City, split time as a receiver out of the backfield and carrying the ball a bit. As a receiver, Spiller has some good stats for a running back. His career totals in that area clock in at 198 catches for 1484 yards and 9 touchdowns.
Spiller also is more of a speedy back like Charles. The offensive line is designed for the quick and speedy backs. This line and Spiller will get along great, I expect some decent rushing stats out of C.J. this season. I am not asking for a 1,000+ yard season from him or Ware but as long as the running game stays strong and Spiller gets to see action in the passing game, this offense could be good on the field. Both backs will have to find pay dirt more than the total 3 touchdowns between both of them. Yes, Spiller did not have a rushing score last season.
There will be a slight shift in how the rushing attack will play out. A focus more on the receiving out of the backfield aspect
Did the running back stable really change that much?
Taking everything into account, the best answer for this question is: No not really. There will be a slight shift in how the rushing attack will play out. A focus more on the receiving out of the backfield aspect, but overall, it’s nothing major. If you ask this Addict, I am happy with the C.J. Spiller signing and the changes I am anticipating.
What do you think Addicts? Do you like Spiller? Are you in favor of the shift in focus coming down the wire? Let me know! I can’t wait to chat with you! Stay loud, stay awesome, and Go Chiefs!