I created the poll/thread last week asking for the best RB playing today and posted it on every team website. I received some PM's asking me to ask who was the best ever. I don't know why they did'nt just do it themselves, but I'll post it and give my opinion.
I chose the RB's for the poll based on their career numbers. I know there will be people that say, "why wasn't (your player here) given consideration?". These are the players I would put on the list. I gave Eric Dickerson strong consideration but, I chose to make #8 the "other" choice so you can voice your opinion.
It's hard to quantify who was the best because there have been many backs that were good at many things. The way I look at it, whoever does the most with the least is the best back.
Emmitt Smith: Emmitt was a great back but he also had a dominant O-Line and a complete offense around him....product of a system.
Jim Brown: In the era when Brown was playing defensive linemen were the same size as Brown. The competition level wasn't as high as later backs.
Earl Campbell: Punishing runner that was fun to watch but longevity and records don't make him #1.
OJ Simpson: IMO having high morals plays a role in being considered for the best all-time. Simpson is the best at avoiding prison for murder....not being an NFL back.
Gale Sayers: Another great player that is a product of a system and a time in the league when the competition level didn't stack up.
Walter Payton: Great runner, blocker, pass catcher. Durable and able to put up the numbers year after year. Great character and definately a role model.
After much mental anguish and debate my choice for the best of all time is:
Barry Sanders: He has all the numbers despite being on a Lions team that didn't surround him with talent. Like Walter he had impeccable character. With NFL defensive players being bigger, stronger, and faster he played against the toughest competition on the list. He was an underutilized but good receiver and adequate blocker. For pure running ability and the make-you-miss wow factor, he was in a league of his own.
Please vote and give opinion's
