Since Nick Sirianni became head coach of the Eagles, their run game has turned heads. The Eagles were the top-rushing team in the NFL last year with 2,715 yards, per Statmuse. This season, the Eagles have remained a top-five rushing attack. Is there a chance their run game could be even better?
The one thing the Eagles’ offense is missing could be a power running back.
Yes, smash mouth football and power running has basically been phased out of the game in favor of passing. But it might make sense for the Eagles offense to sign or draft a power back this offseason given the way they run the ball.
Right now, the Eagles backfield is rolling with Miles Sanders as the feature back and is rounded out by Boston Scott, a scat back with big play potential, and Kenneth Gainwell, a receiving back with promise. Adding a power back to the mix might serve the Eagles offense well.
A power back would compliment Hurts in the run-pass option (RPO). If Hurts chooses to hand the ball off, the power back would run the the ball up the middle of the defense and give the team more manageable situations on third down.
If Hurts chooses to keep the ball and pass, the power back could act as a serviceable pass blocker. If Hurts chooses to keep the ball and take off running, the power back could act as a lead blocker.
Similarly, a power back could act as a lead blocker on quarterback draws. He could also push the pile on quarterback sneaks, a play the Eagles have run with great success with Hurts.
Adding a power back would open up the Eagles playbook, allowing them to run the triple-option and the pistol formation. They could even line up the power back at H-back in certain situations.
Essentially, adding a power back would make the Eagles more versatile when compared to the spread offense we’ve seen from them all season. He’d act as a Swiss army knife for the offense, running blocking and receiving when called upon.
It’s a similar role to how the Baltimore Ravens use fullback Patrick Ricard. He lines up everywhere the Ravens need him to and is an impact player in their system.
There isn’t much wrong with the Eagles offense. But making this addition could elevate them to new heights.
