Football Outsiders

Links (2)

PFT: Could Steelers Go After Shaun Alexander?
Published 9/30/2008 at FanHouse
... That sounds great if you're getting the Alexander who was one of the league's best backs before he firted with the "Curse of 370" in 2005. Ever since then, Alexander has been a below average back who has averaged only 3.6 yards per carry, fumbled eight times in two years and has battled injuries. He once was a great one, but there aren't many examples of once-great backs regaining their greatness at the age of 31. ...

Why should we want to run Clinton Portis into the ground?
Published 10/1/2008 by Skin Patrol at Hogs Haven
... There is extensive discussion on the internets (such that you needn't take my word for it) over the proper amount to utilize running backs so as to maximize their efficiency, health, longevity, and the like. The Rule of 370 is one such theory and can be read about it more detail here. Like most things, a more nuanced discussion would be better than merely posting the now almost mythical number of 370, but the theory is something like: Running backs who carry the ball 370 times a year generally decline in production the following year. ...