With 1,760 yards, Vikings running back Adrian Peterson led the NFL in rushing last year, his second NFL season. But his position coach thinks Peterson will be even better. I thought he made a tremendous jump from [his rookie season], but also I think he will improve again this year, Eric Bieniemy told Sid Hartman of the Minneapolis Star Tribune. My main concern with him is just basically getting back to understanding run-game reads. Because, obviously, he had a great year last year, but it could have been so much better. I know for a second-year player to go out and rush for 1,760 yards is a tremendous, tremendous success. The sky can be the limit. Petersons lone weakness is fumbling, despite hands strong enough to rip the ball in two. Most of his issues have been [fumbling] in fighting for extra yardage, Bieniemy said, and at times youve just got to learn that, Hey, its OK to go down. I know thats not his nature, but its OK. Source: ProFootballTalk.com
how much more do you want to push a guy who has had a history of injuries? chester taylor is an extremtly capiable backup who can be used more to offset the load on petterson
i agree with mike. there's no reason to burn this kid out when taylor is available to take some of the wear and tear. having said that, there has been a lot of talk around a.p. that he is going to be 'going down' sooner and may be putting on some weight to help absorb some of the punishment. Personally, that concerns me and I am very interested to see how he does/how he runs different this year. He's been so much fun to watch. I don't want him becoming 'just another running back'.
