Running Backs - Their Own Little World

Think of a compass - North, South, East and West. Now think of a football field - the two end zones are considered North and South in football, no matter how the stadium is pointed.

Going In All Directions

Running backs are sometimes referred to as North-South runners and East-West runners. A North-South runner is a player who just goes straight ahead, focusing his attention on the hole rather than trying to fool the defense with his fancy footwork. They may not always get big gains, but they usually always get something.

East-West runners are the ones you see dodging the defense back and forth as they try to make their way toward the end zone. At times you may see them almost dancing around the field, going in every direction, turning, jumping and quickly making decisions on where to go next. Sometimes this can make for quite an exciting run. They may get stopped for losses on some plays, but they also can break off some very big runs.

Up to the Challenge?

Do you know which running back led the league with 1,853 yards rushing in 2002?

a. LaDainian Tomlinson (San Diego Chargers)
b. Ricky Williams (Miami Dolphins)
c. Priest Holmes (Kansas City Chiefs)

Answer: Ricky Williams. Tomlinson followed with 1,683 yards and Holmes with 1,615 yards.

Quick Tip The runners who end up with the most yards are usually the ones who run straight ahead - the North-South runners. Do you think Edgerrian James is a North-South runner? Which kind are you?