NFC Unit Rankings: RB’s

1)   Minnesota Vikings: No brainer. All-Day is a threat to rush for 2,000 yards every year and few doubt that Chester Taylor would be a 1,000 yard rusher annually given the opportunity. These two guys have to be licking their chops at the thought of the 6 and 7 man fronts that they’ll see with Favre under center. Taylor caught 45 balls out of the backfield last year adding another weapon for Favre in the passing game. FB Naufau Tahi was inconsistent last year, but we expect marked improvement in 2009.

2)   Carolina Panthers: DeAngelo Williams went for 1,800 yards last year. Jonathan Stewart rushed for over 800 yards and 10 td’s in an injury shortened rookie season. Ridiculous as it may seem the Panthers may even improve on that this year.

3)   New York Giants: Brandon Jacobs is a bruiser that fits perfectly behind the Giants mauling OL. Ahmad Bradshaw will see more work this year without Derrick Ward in the rotation. He’ll excel. The holes up front are too big for him not to. Don’t be surprised to see former Georgia standout Danny Ware getting carries this year. FB Madison Hedgecock is a 266 pound beast of a blocker that rarely sees carries, but is effective at the point of attack.

4)   Atlanta Falcons: Michael turner shocked the world in 2008 primarily because his OL’s effectiveness was even more shocking. Turner should get another 1,500 yards and double-digit td’s. Jerious Norwood is a change of pace back that contributes on more than just third down and can line-up at WR to give defenses a different look. FB Ovie Mughelli rarely touches the rock, but is punishing blocker and an integral part of the running game.

5)   Dallas Cowboys: It was tough leaving the Bears off of this list, but the Boys just have too much depth. Expect a healthy Felix Jones to be lined up all over the field reeking havoc on opposing coordinators. Marion Barber is a tough runner that needs to learn that he doesn’t have to deliver a blow at the end of every run. Otherwise he’s going to have a short career. Tashard Choice was the steal of the 2007 draft and is capable of carrying the load if and when Barber goes down.