Ravens position analysis : The running backs
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The Baltimore Ravens running backs struggled last season with both health and production. Ray Rice had a career worst season and Bernard Pierce struggled. Most of the blame can be placed on the offensive line and health. Rice was injured pretty much all season and Pierce was banged up as well.
This offseason has not been good for the Ravens running backs. Rice and Lorenzo Taliaferro were both arrested and face possible suspensions. Rice’s arrest was a lot more public than Taliaferro.
Let’s get to analysis.
1. Ray Rice: Rice only had four touchdowns in 2013 but has a much better track record. Running backs have a short shelf life and this season Rice will have to prove that he can still play at the NFL level. Before 2013 Rice stayed healthy for most of his career and has been a go-to guy for Joe Flacco. Rice has great hands and quickness for a running back. Rice will also face a possible suspension, which will likely be for four-games, (my guess). Rice will be the Ravens number one running back when he comes back but will likely receive a lot less carries than in previous seasons. The suspension and less carries should help keep Rice fresh and playing at a high level as he ages. UPDATE Rice will be suspended for just two-games.
2. Benard Pierce: Pierce will likely start the season as the Ravens starting running back if Rice is suspended. Pierce was slowed down by some nagging injuries last season and only averaged 2.9 yards per carry. Pierce is a much better running back than the numbers showed last season. I can not say this enough but the offensive line did not really give the running game much of a chance. Pierce is a good all-around back, he can break tackles and has good speed. If the offensive line opens up wholes Pierce will hit the whole hard.
3. Lorenzo Taliaferro: I loved the pick of Taliaferro in the draft, the Ravens needed a power running back and that is what Taliaferro is. If the offensive line struggles again this season the Ravens should turn to Taliaferro for some tough yards. Taliaferro had a misdemeanor in the offseason but I do not see that warranting a suspension. Taliaferro should come through in some short yardage situations as well. With the addition of a true number three running back which the Ravens have lack the past few seasons they have a chance to really keep legs fresh.
4. Justin Forsett: Forsett will likely make the team out of training camp if Rice is suspended. Forsett will have a challenge keeping his roster spot because it is unlikely that the Ravens carry four running backs and a full back. Forsett is a decent running back and is a depth move, Forsett has only eight career touchdowns. I doubt Forsett lasts the full season with the Ravens.
5. Kyle Juszczyk: Juszczyk will be the Ravens fullback this season if he stays healthy. Juszczyk saw a little bit of action in his rookie season but now it is time for him to get some playing time. The Ravens did not use the fullback much last season and Gary Kubiak usually does not use the fullback much. I have a feeling Juszczyk will get his touches because he is a good athlete.
6 and 7. Shaun Chapas and Cierre Wood: Both of these running backs are young inexperienced players who will likely be training camp bodies only. I highlight doubt either of them will make the team. Their best bet is making the practice squad.
