It's time for NFL fans everywhere to admit what people in Philadelphia already know. LeSean McCoy is the best running back in the league. Watching him play for even a little bit should convince everyone of that fact. McCoy is coming off a 185 yard rushing performance against the Dallas Cowboys on October 30. McCoy made one of the best rush defenses in the league looked like a high school team. It's not just numbers that make McCoy the best in the league. It's everything he does throughout the game. As an Eagles fan, I think it's time that everyone recognizes what a special player he is.
In the Andy Reid era, running the football was never too common. Reid has always been a pass first coach. Even when Brian Westbrook was on the team, the Eagles utilized him in the passing game just as much as they did in the rushing game. But it seems clear that Reid recognizes how great McCoy is. For the second straight week, McCoy carried the ball more at least 28 times. That had never happened in the Reid era before. Not only is he getting the touches but he is making things happen. McCoy is second in the NFL with 754 rushing yards. He trails only Adrian Peterson by 44 yards, though Peterson hasn't had a bye week yet. McCoy has 10 total touchdowns, including eight on the ground. He has scored in every game for Philadelphia. His 5.6 yards per carry is amazing and he is also a threat to catch the ball. McCoy is doing it all right now.
McCoy is on pace to set the new rushing mark for the Eagles. He also has more touchdowns through seven games than any player in franchise history. While other top backs in the NFL are already declining, McCoy hasn't even hit his peak yet. He is just 23 years old and has some of his best years still ahead of him. Even when McCoy doesn't have the ball, he makes things happen. He can distract defenders and he's not afraid to throw a block. He is a leader and plays with tremendous passion. Eagles fans have seen him chest bump Andy Reid and Howard Mudd on the sideline. This looks like a guy that is playing with a lot of heart and excitement.
Adrian Peterson is a great running back, but I think the time has come for McCoy to take the mantle as the top back in the NFL. There's nothing about him that you shouldn't like. He has the numbers and the intangibles. He's young, quick, tough, and exciting. He's the kind of player that Eagles love to watch every week. With McCoy in this offense, the Eagles are going to be scary every week.
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