Analyzing the opponent: Ranking NFC North Running back Groups

2. Detroit Lions

Theo Riddick, Ameer Abdullah, Zach Zenner, Dwayne Washington

The Lions shoot up to number two in the division almost by default. The real reason is that of all of these backs from the bottom three teams, Riddick is likely the most proven. Riddick is likely just a change of pace back, and he had 95 carries to 67 targets last season, but he put up six combined touchdowns and over 700 in just ten games. He is a threat on the field and when building a defensive scheme. If he can stay healthy for 16 games, he is at least a trusted and relied on threat.

Abdullah has the talent to be better than any of the other rookies listed. His highlights come in spurts, when he gets to show off his skill, he is a dangerous runner. Injury has hurt Abdullah and has only started in 11 games. Still, he has 938 yards from scrimmage. Zenner was given a chance late into last season due to the injuries and looked like a legitimate threat. He had four touchdowns in four starts and fits perfectly as a power runner that this team does not have. If they can get the three healthy together they have a great set of compliments, however it is tough to put a lot of trust in how long they all can hold up.