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Top 5 Rushing Matchups

Kansas City vs Denver

The Kansas City Chiefs, often known for their high-flying passing game led by Patrick Mahomes II, have displayed a notable shift in their offensive strategy this season. Recognizing the importance of balance, they've increased their emphasis on running the football. While they haven't exactly excelled in terms of efficiency, ranking 22nd in yards per rush, their commitment to the ground game has resulted in a respectable 123 rushing yards per game. This marks a significant shift from their 25th-ranked rushing rate in 2022 and 27th in 2021. A closer look at the running back situation reveals a trio of contributors in Isaiah Pacheco, Clyde Edwards-Helaire, and Jerick McKinnon. However, these statistics can be a bit misleading. Pacheco has emerged as the clear lead runner, taking the lion's share of rush attempts. He has accounted for 67% of the rushing attempts, showcasing his ability as the primary ball-carrier. What sets Pacheco apart is his red-zone presence. Over 14 games in this role, he has garnered 24 touches from inside the 10-yard line, making him a consistent scoring threat near the goal line.

As for the Denver Broncos, who were once known for their defensive prowess, they've seen a significant decline in their ability to stop the run. This season, their run defense ranks at the very bottom of the league, a dramatic fall from their 17th-place ranking in 2022. In a recent matchup with the Chiefs, it was Breece Hall's turn to exploit this vulnerability. Hall made an emphatic return to the field, amassing 177 rushing yards in his first full game since recovering from ACL surgery. His performance included three runs of 15 yards or more, highlighting the lack of resistance he encountered at the line of scrimmage.

Hall's 72-yard touchdown run was reminiscent of the dominance the Miami Dolphins displayed against the Broncos in Week 3. In both cases, there were visible signs of defensive breakdowns, with wide running lanes opening up and defenders often pursuing ball carriers at unfavorable angles. This decline in the Broncos' run defense can be traced back to the absence of stalwart run-stoppers like Derek Wolfe and Shelby Harris along the defensive front. Moreover, the team's search for a reliable linebacker to fortify the run defense has extended over the last decade without a satisfactory solution. The current generation of Broncos defenders appears to be geared more toward defending the pass, with an emphasis on speed and agility rather than the bulk and toughness required to staunch the run. The results have been far from optimal, as opponents across the league have been able to find success against the Broncos' run defense. Whenever game situations allow, these opponents have effectively exploited this matchup to grind out yards on the ground, making the Broncos a desirable opponent for teams seeking to establish their running game.

Miami vs Carolina

The Miami Dolphins' ground game has been nothing short of extraordinary, making it arguably the most dominant rushing attack in the league. Describing it as the best in the NFL feels like an understatement; their performance on the field speaks volumes. Despite ranking 15th in rushing volume with just 27 attempts per game, they have managed to outpace every other team by a staggering 109 yards. Raheem Mostert and his teammates have been a revelation in the first month of the season. Combining their efforts, they've turned 96 rushing attempts into an impressive 774 yards and scored 12 touchdowns. Even the loss of De'Von Achane to injured reserve hasn't managed to put a damper on their success. Veteran Jeff Wilson, a favorite of coach Mike McDaniel, steps up to fill the void left by Achane, ensuring the Dolphins continue their relentless assault on opposing defenses. What makes Miami's ground game even more potent is their ability to exploit defenses in various ways. Pre-snap motions and the sheer speed of their receivers leave defenses scrambling and grasping at straws to contain them. With Wilson joining the fray, they're poised to carve through the porous Panthers' defense with ease.

On the flip side, the Panthers' defense, still in the midst of a rebuilding phase, has struggled immensely against the run. Their last three opponents, along with the Falcons in Week 1, have all featured a 90-yard rusher, highlighting the vulnerability of their run defense. Allowing an average of 5.2 yards per rush and conceding 8 rushing touchdowns in just 5 games showcases the challenges they face. Complicating matters further is the absence of veteran linebacker Shaq Thompson, leaving the Panthers with limited experience in the linebacker corps. Fillers like Frankie Luvu, Kamu Grugier-Hill, and even former Panther Deion Jones have had to step in, amplifying the defensive concerns. Additionally, the lack of bulk upfront makes it challenging for them to protect their linebackers effectively. Facing off against the Dolphins' lightning-fast ground attack is the last thing the Panthers need right now. If the game flow follows its expected trajectory, the Dolphins' rushing numbers could reach video game-like proportions, painting a vivid picture of their dominance on the field.

Seattle at Cincinnati

The Seattle Seahawks, led by their veteran coach Pete Carroll, are prioritizing the run game in their offensive strategy. Despite running the ball 42% of the time, a percentage that might not fully align with Carroll's run-heavy preferences, they've been remarkably efficient. The dynamic duo of Ken Walker III and rookie Zach Charbonnet has been a force to reckon with, averaging 97 yards per game at an impressive 4.6 yards per carry. Walker has particularly stood out, finding the end zone 5 times already this season. What makes their performance even more remarkable is the fact that they've managed to excel despite the Seahawks' front line being plagued by injuries in recent weeks. The offense's design revolves around the run game, setting up quarterback Geno Smith for success, indicating that the run volume is likely to remain stable and might even increase if Carroll has his way.

On the other side of the field, the Cincinnati Bengals' defense has been struggling to contain opposing rushing attacks. They rank among the league's worst, allowing a staggering 5.3 yards per carry and 154 rushing yards per game. Notably, even power backs, not just superstars, have found success against them. Standout performances by the likes of Gus Edwards, James Conner, and Emari Demercado combined to exploit the Bengals' defense, highlighting their issues with tackling and playmaking. Despite having renowned run-stoppers like D.J. Reader and B.J. Hill upfront, the Bengals have been unable to clean up plays effectively. The Bengals lead the NFL in missed tackles, as pointed out by defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo, emphasizing their struggles. With no apparent reinforcements on the horizon, the Seahawks are poised to take advantage of these weaknesses and exploit the Bengals' run defense in their upcoming matchup.

Buffalo vs NY Giants

The Buffalo Bills' offensive prowess has been predominantly associated with their aerial assault, led by star quarterback Josh Allen. However, in the 2023 season, James Cook has emerged as a key component of their offensive game plan. Unlike the previous year, where he shared the workload with Devin Singletary and Allen, Cook has become the focal point of their rushing attack, commanding 57% of the snaps. His remarkable speed, vision, and reliable hands make him an integral part of this explosive unit. Cook has showcased his versatility, averaging 4.8 yards per rush and contributing 86 scrimmage yards per game. Notably, he has delivered standout performances, including 123- and 98-yard games on the ground, and has been entrusted with critical goal-line carries. Given his consistency and the favorable matchup, Cook has become a must-start player for fantasy owners.

On the flip side, the New York Giants have experienced a disastrous start to the 2023 season, plagued by both offensive struggles and defensive woes. The defense, in particular, has been porous against both the run and the pass. While there is talent in their front seven, featuring stalwarts like Leonard Williams and A'Shawn Robinson, the defense primarily operates as a pass-first unit. The lack of bulk in the middle and the presence of mostly journeyman linebackers have posed significant challenges. Despite facing some of the league's top rushing attacks, the Giants' defense has failed to halt opposing running backs. Notable performances by the likes of Christian McCaffrey, James Conner, and Tony Pollard underscore the struggles of this defensive unit. With the Bills' ability to exploit mismatches and spread out the thin Giants defense, Buffalo's rushing attack, led by James Cook, is poised for a strong showing in their upcoming matchup.