Running Backs volume of catching the ball is expected to rise in 2017
Running Back’ receiving, especially screens helps slow the pass rush
It’s hard for most NFL fans to say they aren’t impressed with Coach Adam Gase.
In one short season, he has begun the turn around of a franchise that’s been a doormat for most of this century.
Yeah, Gase might be young, but his ability to connect with his players, intelligence, and refreshingly creative offensive mind has Miami Dolphins fans and players alike believing in a bright future.
One key to the success of 2017 season that Gase has mentioned is the backs must be more involved in the passing game.
Miami RB’s had a few big catches for Miami in 2016. They made the difference in a couple of games and made a couple others close.
So, how big an effect would there be if the backs receiving production sees a sharp rise?
Gase was aware that he was limited at the positions of Tight End and Running backs, and the pass catching production suffered as a result. He made it a point to address the TE position with Julius Thomas, and during OTA’s is putting more focus on getting the RB’s better at catching the ball.
In the modern game, RB’s assignments entail far more than just running
It would be a massive understatement to say that if Miami utilizes the Running Backs in the passing game more effectively this year it would be a good move.
When backs are used correctly in the passing game, then it’s not only a very dangerous weapon, but opens up the second and third levels. Just look at the Patriots.
If defenses are forced to key in on all four levels of the passing game and every receiving threat, especially given the talent of Miami’s wide outs, then opponents will be stretched to the limits. Tendencies to blitz will diminish, and one crucial aspect of this is it will lend strength to the Dolphins Offensive Line… and we all know that they can use all the help they can get.
So it’s not entirely surprising that when Offensive Coordinator Clyde Christensen was speaking about Jay Ajayi, he was most impressed with how improved he’s become at catching the football. Don’t forget that in Ajayi’s last season at Boise State he had 50 receptions for 535 receiving yards and 4 touchdowns, which clearly shows he has the ability to be a threat in the passing game.
If the rumours are true, Gase must giddy about expanding his play book.
Most pay per head review sites will agree that an expansion of the Running Back screen game will be a huge benefit to Miami’s offense… and to Ajayi’s overall game and him reaching superstar level.
Backs that excel at running and receiving are key to the modern game
However, it doesn’t end with just Ajayi improving in the passing game. Reports are coming out that both Damien Williams and Kenyan Drake have also been working on their pass catching skills as well.
Williams was tendered this off-season, because he was one of our most dangerous weapons in the Redzone, accumulating 6 touchdowns last season (3 running and 3 receiving). He was our most effective pass catching running back. Williams was one of two backs to not drop any passes targeted his way–he hasn’t dropped a pass in two seasons. Gase will continue to find creative ways to get him the ball.
Drake was used sparingly last year. However, he has the biggest chunk yardage threat ability of any of our backs, and what better way to get him quickly into open space then with screen passes, swings, or flats?
Gase has a much bigger vision for his offense this season. And while this is just one small piece of the big picture that he will install… it’s small but crucial. What are the rest of the Miami Dolphins News fans thoughts about the Dolphins incorporating more passing plays to their Running Backs this season?
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