Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
The Indianapolis Colts have not had a running back who has reached 1,000 rushing yards since Joseph Addai in the 2007 season. There is a high likelihood Frank Gore could end that streak. The Colts signed Gore this offseason to be the primary option in the backfield. With all the talent the Colts have on offense, the 31-year-old back should have plenty of running room.
Gore had 1,106 rushing yards on 255 carries for the San Francisco 49ers in 2014. In 10 seasons with the 49ers, Gore had eight seasons with over 1,000 rushing yards, including each of the past four. Gore’s body has taken a beating and this could slow him down at any time. However, the Colts only need him to produce his 4.5 yards per carry career average.
Gore is a one-cut, downhill running back. When he sees the running lane, he runs through it full speed. He does not dance or juke for more yards. He would much rather run through tacklers than run away from them. This will work perfectly in the Colts’ offensive scheme.
The Colts are a passing team, but offensive coordinator Pep Hamilton was also the OC at the Stanford University. His Stanford offense was known for its physical running backs, even when Andrew Luck was there. It would not be surprising if Hamilton eases back on the passing plays and gives Luck more running plays involving Gore.
Gore is truly an every down type of running back. He is a physical runner who is also a great receiving option out of the backfield, and he is a bruising pass blocker. This means Gore does not have to come off the field when the Colts run their no-huddle offense, which they do often.
The Colts will have Gore on the field as often as they can. However, his value will show up in short yardage plays. He got three or four yards for first downs or touchdowns repeatedly for the 49ers. This is something the Colts lacked at times last season. If Gore does this for them as well, the offense will put together long drives and not rely on big passing plays downfield.
The Colts have a lot of talented receivers which means defenses will counter with more defensive backs and less linebackers. This allows Gore to have plenty of running room to work with. The Colts will certainly use Gore often, and his physical running style could help carry them to a Super Bowl.
