The Detroit Lions running game is anemic to say the least. The team ranks dead last in total rushing yards (602) and rushing yards per game (66.9). They also rank 30th in yards per carry (3.4) and 29th in rushing touchdowns (2). Needless to say, this is not what the team expected when they drafted guard Laken Tomlinson in the first-round this year and running back Ameer Abdullah in the second-round.
To try and jumpstart the running game, interim offensive coordinator Jim Bob Cooter anointed veteran Joique Bell his starter. But Bell managed just 17 yards on 14 carries in Detroit's win over the Green Bay Packers last week. That game also marked the sixth consecutive contest in which the Lions failed to rush for a touchdown.
Mike O'Hara of DetroitLions.com suggests that Cooter rearrange his RB depth chart.
"I'd start rookie Ameer Abdullah at running back and ride him through thick and thin," O'Hara wrote.
"He's shown one dent in his armor, and it's a big one. He's had trouble with ball security.
"But he can offer play-amking ability as a runner that has not been demonstrated by any other back on the roster. Whenever the ball is in Abdullah's hands, he's a threat to break something big."
It's true that Abdullah has been an impressive return man, averaging a league-high 31.9 yards on kickoffs. He also leads the NFL with 20 returns of 20 yards or long and three returns of 40 yards or longer. But at running back, the rookie has totaled just 240 yards on a 3.5 YPC.
Theo Riddick leads the way as Detroit's pass-catching back with 45 receptions and Bell seems entrenched as the starter for now. Though Abdullah may be the most talented ball-carrier on Detroit's roster, it's clear that he's yet to hit his stride in the NFL. At this point, none of the Lions running backs are start-worthy in fantasy football.
