Kevin Smith runs tall; That's not a good thing
Like a lot of fantasy players, I iirationally like rookie running backs, especially if they are likely to start. But it's hard to wrap my arms around Kevin Smith of the Lions. His lack of competition and experience in zome schemes are plusses, but there are so many negatives.
1. The Lions offensive line
2. His lack of competition at Central Florida
3. 450 carries last season! 450. 450. 450. 450.
If that didn't make you worried about his durability this season, now we have to worry about this: Smith's upright running style. Smith must have got popped at the first contact practice of Lions camp:
"You've got to get low. It's not only recommended, but it's demanded. Yeah, and I do run upright. It's probably going to take a couple more times for me to get knocked on my butt to fix it."
Chris Brown, anyone?
Comments
Does anyone else have a major problem with a player (Shawn Andrews) threatening to hold out before the 7 yr contract they signed has even started?? Come on this is ridiculous...
Posted by: TC | July 24, 2008 02:20 PM
Not too mention he plays in the NFC north, with 2 tough games against the vikes, and the pack...and the bears aren't what they used to be but with tommie harris back their run D won't be bad.
Posted by: john | July 24, 2008 02:21 PM
I like Smith's chances at being the starter. After that, though, all bets are off.
Posted by: Hazean | July 24, 2008 03:17 PM
Didn't Eric Dickerson have a pretty upright running style? It doesn't really strike me as a huge deal.
Regardless, it seems like it would be a hard thing to change a habit like that.
Posted by: Robert O. | July 24, 2008 03:25 PM
Kevin Jones ran upright.....
Posted by: Dan | July 24, 2008 03:38 PM
Adrian Peterson runs a bit upright, too. The thing that will determine whether Smith is successful (or just another Chris Brown) will be whether he can drop his pad-level going into contact (like AP). If you want to worry about one of the rooks who runs funny, spend your time fretting about McFadden...
Posted by: Chad F. | July 24, 2008 03:46 PM
Keep talking.
I will take Kevin Smith in the 6th round of every draft.
He may get hurt, this year even, but he will still have good games and be a startable flex.
Posted by: russ | July 24, 2008 03:50 PM