2010 Stats | 563 rush yds. | 4 rush TDs | 58 rec. / 487 yds. | 2 rec. TDs |
2011 Projected | 695 rush yds. | 4 rush TDs | 60 rec. / 525 yds. | 3 rec. TDs |
Best showed flashes of his playmaking abilities last season, but mostly in the passing game. Best never established himself as a consistent running threat, rushing for over 75 yards just once in his rookie season. In his defense, he did battle turf toe much of last season and played behind a weak offense line. The concern with Best all along has been his ability to stay healthy and whether or not he can carry the load. Best's role is even more muddled after the Lions used a second-round pick in the 2011 NFL Draft to select Illinois running back Mikel Leshoure. Leshoure is a bigger back who can work between the tackles and wear down defenses. That's good news and bad news for Best, who will lose out on carries to Leshoure, but will also face more tired defenses. The Lions backfield could set-up like the Giants' running game, where Brandon Jacobs and Ahmad Bradshaw spilt carries. While Best won't be an every down back, look for him to be very involved in the passing game (58 catches, 487 yards, 2 TDs in 2010). His ability to catch and run with the ball makes him a dynamic player, with big play potential.
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