Barry or Emmitt? (1 Viewer)

[Phantom Knight]

I think even better than the put Barry behind that O line argument is put Emmitt on Detroit & he wouldn't even be in this conversation.

+1

 

[Phantom Knight]

Let's forget for a second where the both of them played. If you put both of them in any system on any team, plain and simple, Emmitt's running style would translate to wins while Barry's running style would translate to losses. Why? Because Emmitt would rarely get tackled for a loss and he'd put his team in a better position to succeed, ala 2nd and 5/6. Barry on the other hand would constantly put his offense in 2nd and 12/13

Yes, the simple stats back up what you say. But there are often more than one way to explain things. In this case to equate the fact that Emmit had fewer runs for losses with him being a better runner than Barry is far too simplistic an explanation. First you cannot know what an in-his-prime Emmit would have done on a team with a porous offensive and next to no passing game - because in Dallas Emmit never had to face this game after game, year after year. He played on a team with a wonderful passing game and a top-notch offensive line. OF COURSE he rarely got tackled for a loss - he rarely had to worry about getting hit until he had crossed the line of scrimmage.

Meanwhile, Barry was playing behind a sieve that called itself an offensive line with a passing attack that no one really feared. The result was that more often than not merely getting back to the line of scrimmage was a feat that many backs (imo, Emmit included) could not have accomplished - yet Barry did it with regularity.

 

[GregR_2]

UPDATE on PFT Votes:Barry - 17,000Emmitt - 2,400Wow, we are all just off base I guess.

Nah, that just shows that 17,000 general fans voted compared to 2,400 people who really understand the game of football.

Hows that argument working out for you guys? lol

Good arguments only work when the receiving end of the argument actually pay attention to what is being argued about...Numerous times in this thread those arguing that Barry was a better running back have posted his rushing stats. While important, rushing in and of itself does not make a running back. On the other side, I can't remember once that an Emmitt supporter has said that Emmitt was a better runner, but that he was a better running back.

More often than not they state that he's a better running back, and then try to back it up with things that indicate he had a more successful and longer career, but that don't actually indicate he was a better running back.Discussions like this get really tedious because some people can't distinguish that better player and better career are the not the same thing. Who is the better player means if we put them in a number of the same situations who will end up doing better over the long haul. How they did in the career and differing situations they actually had can only help give us guidance as to what the answer there is... it isn't the answer itself as some people act like.

 

[Mustang Man]

Results are results. If Barry was the better RB. Smith was the better Football Player. Grew up in Detroit. Never saw Barry take a leadership or ownership role with the lions. Doesn't mean he didn't try. Saying I didn't notice it. No question to his talent. How do people think Tomlinson compares to them?

YA GOT IT. NUFF SAID!

 

[JuSt CuZ]

UPDATE on PFT Votes:

Barry - 17,000

Emmitt - 2,400

Wow, we are all just off base I guess.

Nah, that just shows that 17,000 general fans voted compared to 2,400 people who really understand the game of football.

Hows that argument working out for you guys? lol

Good arguments only work when the receiving end of the argument actually pay attention to what is being argued about...Numerous times in this thread those arguing that Barry was a better running back have posted his rushing stats. While important, rushing in and of itself does not make a running back. On the other side, I can't remember once that an Emmitt supporter has said that Emmitt was a better runner, but that he was a better running back.

Exactly. Well stated.

 

[sspunisher]

Barry's Running Style:

More Productive, Better for Stats

More Highlight Worthy

Makes Defenders Look Foolish

Extremely Rare

Absolutely Amazes Fans

Helps Draw All Pro and Pro Bowl Votes

Requires significantly much more talent/skill

Will never be forgotten

Will probably never be seen again

Emmitt's Running Style:

Wins Football Games.

 

[mcd]

It amazes me that people think that Barry's style wouldn't win games. Like Barry was dancing around behind the line of scrimmage because that was his style. Barry was dancing around behind the line of scrimmage because the hole that was supposed to be there, had a 300 pound defensive lineman plowing through it. If you watched Barry in his unbelievable junior season at OSU, his dancing was taking place 4 to 5 yards past the line of scrimmage, as he was making linebackers & defensive backs look foolish. On the Lions he had no choice, there were no holes to run through much of the time.

The thought that Sanders wouldn't have been unstoppable behind that Dallas offensive line is crazy. Sanders running behind that line, facing only 6 or 7 in the box would have been crazy. Really, heart is getting up every play knowing your going to be swamped before you reach the line of scrimmage, not so much running through a hole untouched & falling forward for 4 yards.

 

[PizzaDeliveryGuy]

Barry's Running Style:

More Productive, Better for Stats

More Highlight Worthy

Makes Defenders Look Foolish

Extremely Rare

Absolutely Amazes Fans

Helps Draw All Pro and Pro Bowl Votes

Requires significantly much more talent/skill

Will never be forgotten

Will probably never be seen again

Emmitt's Running Style:

Wins Football Games.

Hard to argue with that logic.

 

[N Zone]

Barry Sanders scored less touchdowns, had more plays with lost yardage, less 1st downs and didn't close out games in the 4th quarter. Emmitt did everything and is and always will be the greatest football player ever!

Yet still ran for more yards on less carries during the 10 years he played.You guys are arguing against over 90% of the football world who believe its not even close, yet you guys go out and just continuing making the same point. We know all this yet 90 out of every 100 people say "We dont care", Barry is better.

you guys are talking about people not watching football...Well maybe you guys should of watched football, then just reading a record book.... cuz if you watched it...you would see that Barry was the better runner.

Yet another great video of a Barry run --->

Emmitt Smith's dream also included being the all time rushing leader and he accomplished it. Along with rushing titles, Super Bowl MVPs, League MVPs, etc. And did it all with great balance, vision, and helping his team get first downs and win games and was exciting to watch too.

 

[spider321]

Barry's Running Style:

More Productive, Better for Stats

More Highlight Worthy

Makes Defenders Look Foolish

Extremely Rare

Absolutely Amazes Fans

Helps Draw All Pro and Pro Bowl Votes

Requires significantly much more talent/skill

Will never be forgotten

Will probably never be seen again

Emmitt's Running Style and Far Superior Supporting Cast:

Win Football Games.

ftfy

 

[JuSt CuZ]

Barry Sanders scored less touchdowns, had more plays with lost yardage, less 1st downs and didn't close out games in the 4th quarter. Emmitt did everything and is and always will be the greatest football player ever!

Yet still ran for more yards on less carries during the 10 years he played.You guys are arguing against over 90% of the football world who believe its not even close, yet you guys go out and just continuing making the same point. We know all this yet 90 out of every 100 people say "We dont care", Barry is better.

you guys are talking about people not watching football...Well maybe you guys should of watched football, then just reading a record book.... cuz if you watched it...you would see that Barry was the better runner.

Yet another great video of a Barry run --->

Barrys dream was still be Americas better running back without doing most fo that...and according to 90% of America, he accomplished that.

 

[Truman]

Barry Sanders scored less touchdowns, had more plays with lost yardage, less 1st downs and didn't close out games in the 4th quarter. Emmitt did everything and is and always will be the greatest football player ever!

Yet still ran for more yards on less carries during the 10 years he played.You guys are arguing against over 90% of the football world who believe its not even close, yet you guys go out and just continuing making the same point. We know all this yet 90 out of every 100 people say "We dont care", Barry is better.

you guys are talking about people not watching football...Well maybe you guys should of watched football, then just reading a record book.... cuz if you watched it...you would see that Barry was the better runner.

Yet another great video of a Barry run --->

More proof Americans are idiots.

 

[sspunisher]

Barry's Running Style:

More Productive, Better for Stats

More Highlight Worthy

Makes Defenders Look Foolish

Extremely Rare

Absolutely Amazes Fans

Helps Draw All Pro and Pro Bowl Votes

Requires significantly much more talent/skill

Will never be forgotten

Will probably never be seen again

Emmitt's Running Style:

Win Football Games.

ftfy

Thanks

 

[PizzaDeliveryGuy]

Also, you guys claiming that Sanders' style didn't win football games should really look at the Lions record with Sanders and then look at it before and after Sanders.

 

[chitlins3]

Also, you guys claiming that Sanders' style didn't win football games should really look at the Lions record with Sanders and then look at it before and after Sanders.

Lions were 5-11 his last year, made the playoffs without him the next year, and were 9-7 the year after that.

 

[AmosMoses]

Many people here are falling prey to the "highlight reel" mentality.

 

[mcd]

Also, you guys claiming that Sanders' style didn't win football games should really look at the Lions record with Sanders and then look at it before and after Sanders.

Lions were 5-11 his last year, made the playoffs without him the next year, and were 9-7 the year after that.

Well, to be fair, the Lions did make the playoffs in 4 of Sanders last 6 seasons.If you look at the Sanders years as a group, & after Sanders as a group, there really isn't a comparison.

 

[Tau837]

How to define what makes a RB? I'll take a shot:

50% general ability running the ball

10% short yardage running

15% general ability as a receiver

10% durability

10% blocking

5% other intangibles not listed (e.g., leadership, intelligence, heart, etc.)

I'll use a 100 point scale and give my assessment of Sanders and Smith using this definition. Sanders:

50 pts general ability running the ball

7 pts short yardage running

12 pts general ability as a receiver

10 pts durability

3 pts blocking

2 pts other intangibles

---

84 pts

Smith:

40 pts general ability running the ball

10 pts short yardage running

8 pts general ability as a receiver

10 pts durability

10 pts blocking

5 pts other intangibles

---

83 pts

It's close, but Sanders wins. That's giving Smith maximum points for blocking and other intangibles, while giving Sanders only 1/3 of the possible points in those areas. But that doesn't make up for the difference in running and receiving ability, which is much more important.

So... Sanders is both a better runner AND a better running back.

 

[JuSt CuZ]

Many people here are falling prey to the "highlight reel" mentality.

Yup the 5.0 ypc on over 300+ carries on average over 10 years has nothing to do with it.

 

[Moonlight]

How to define what makes a RB? I'll take a shot:

50% general ability running the ball

10% short yardage running

15% general ability as a receiver

10% durability

10% blocking

5% other intangibles not listed (e.g., leadership, intelligence, heart, etc.)

I'll use a 100 point scale and give my assessment of Sanders and Smith using this definition. Sanders:

50 pts general ability running the ball

7 pts short yardage running

12 pts general ability as a receiver

10 pts durability

3 pts blocking

2 pts other intangibles

---

84 pts

Smith:

40 pts general ability running the ball

10 pts short yardage running

8 pts general ability as a receiver

10 pts durability

10 pts blocking

5 pts other intangibles

---

83 pts

It's close, but Sanders wins. That's giving Smith maximum points for blocking and other intangibles, while giving Sanders only 1/3 of the possible points in those areas. But that doesn't make up for the difference in running and receiving ability, which is much more important.

So... Sanders is both a better runner AND a better running back."

__________________________________________________________

Have to dispute your calling a draw regarding both backs receiving ability.

Sanders

Career totals: 352 receptions/2921 yards/8.3 ypr/10 Tds/2.3 receptions per game/19.1 receiving yards per game.

Smith

Career Totals: 515 receptions/3224 yards/6.3 ypr/11 TDs/ 2.3 receptions per game/14.3 receiving yards per game

While both backs averaged the same # of receptions per game Sanders was @33% better in his production. As in running the ball Sanders simply did more with each touch. As with running the ball Smith accumulated more career total passing yards because he played 5 more years.

 

[The Moz]

Emmitt was solid but IMO isn't even a HOF talent. Name me a back that wouldn't get similar numbers who is starting right now on a NFL team? The best O line ever built - with a great QB and a great WR in Irvin - then add in a stellar defense.

I respect Emmitts toughness but honestly the man isn't even in the discussion of the top 20 RB talents ever. So Many times Emmitts had holes that only college RB's ever see.

top 5 RB's in no order

Brown

Barry

Payton

OJ

Dickerson

HM

Faulk

 

[Moonlight]

Both players were great contributors to there teams. Without Sanders the Lions weren't much.

Barry didn't care about records. Emmitt did. Both of their careers reflect this. Different makeups. Different motivations.

A few things about Sanders he improved very much as a blocker after his few years. He did get easily thrown around by blitzing LBs early in his career but he did improve and was at least adequate.

Also early in his career he did get caught from behind on some of his breakaway runs. But that strangely stopped. Do not know how you become faster getting older but Sanders somehow refined his technique.

Do not get the statement that Emmitt had more heart. Anyone who saw Sanders play never saw him give anything but his best effort.

The fact that Troy Aikman had more Superbowls than Dan Marino doesn't make him a better QB than Marino or the Dallas punter a better punter than Ray Guy.

 

[The Moz]

Both players were great contributors to there teams. Without Sanders the Lions weren't much.Barry didn't care about records. Emmitt did. Both of their careers reflect this. Different makeups. Different motivations.A few things about Sanders he improved very much as a blocker after his few years. He did get easily thrown around by blitzing LBs early in his career but he did improve and was at least adequate.Also early in his career he did get caught from behind on some of his breakaway runs. But that strangely stopped. Do not know how you become faster getting older but Sanders somehow refined his technique.Do not get the statement that Emmitt had more heart. Anyone who saw Sanders play never saw him give anything but his best effort.The fact that Troy Aikman had more Superbowls than Dan Marino doesn't make him a better QB than Marino or the Dallas punter a better punter than Ray Guy.

Barry got caught a few times from behind - it was the fact he was the most elusive runner in NFL history that makes him special. IMO folks made too much of his speed but he was still the most entertaining player at any position I have ever seen

 

[Tau837]

How to define what makes a RB? I'll take a shot:

50% general ability running the ball

10% short yardage running

15% general ability as a receiver

10% durability

10% blocking

5% other intangibles not listed (e.g., leadership, intelligence, heart, etc.)

I'll use a 100 point scale and give my assessment of Sanders and Smith using this definition. Sanders:

50 pts general ability running the ball

7 pts short yardage running

12 pts general ability as a receiver

10 pts durability

3 pts blocking

2 pts other intangibles

---

84 pts

Smith:

40 pts general ability running the ball

10 pts short yardage running

8 pts general ability as a receiver

10 pts durability

10 pts blocking

5 pts other intangibles

---

83 pts

It's close, but Sanders wins. That's giving Smith maximum points for blocking and other intangibles, while giving Sanders only 1/3 of the possible points in those areas. But that doesn't make up for the difference in running and receiving ability, which is much more important.

So... Sanders is both a better runner AND a better running back.

Have to dispute your calling a draw regarding both backs receiving ability. Sanders

Career totals: 352 receptions/2921 yards/8.3 ypr/10 Tds/2.3 receptions per game/19.1 receiving yards per game.

Smith

Career Totals: 515 receptions/3224 yards/6.3 ypr/11 TDs/ 2.3 receptions per game/14.3 receiving yards per game

While both backs averaged the same # of receptions per game Sanders was @33% better in his production. As in running the ball Sanders simply did more with each touch. As with running the ball Smith accumulated more career total passing yards because he played 5 more years.

I didn't call it a draw on receiving. I gave Sanders 12 points out of 15, and Smith 8 points out of 15.

 

[PizzaDeliveryGuy]

Do not get the statement that Emmitt had more heart. Anyone who saw Sanders play never saw him give anything but his best effort.

It takes a lot of heart in order to grind a career 4.2 YPC into the all time leader in rushing yards.

 

[valhallan]

Barry is easily the best I've ever seen. Carry on.

 

[PizzaDeliveryGuy]

Barry is easily the best I've ever seen. Carry on.

It amazes me that there is anyone on the Emmitt side. He had one year in which his YPC average was higher than Sanders' career YPC. I know that isn't all that goes into being a RB but that is just domination.

 

[fsufan]

i will take Emmit due to he is a better short yardage RB(gaol-line and 3rd and short), best TD RB in the history of the NFL and one of the toughest players to every play the game(just watch the NY game when he was hurt). not sexy/flash like Barry but one hell of a RB.

 

[adrenaline]

i will take Emmit due to he is a better short yardage RB(gaol-line and 3rd and short), best TD RB in the history of the NFL and one of the toughest players to every play the game(just watch the NY game when he was hurt). not sexy/flash like Barry but one hell of a RB.

Not even close

 

[JuSt CuZ]

i will take Emmit due to he is a better short yardage RB(gaol-line and 3rd and short), best TD RB in the history of the NFL and one of the toughest players to every play the game(just watch the NY game when he was hurt). not sexy/flash like Barry but one hell of a RB.

Not even close

Not even an accurate post, Emmitt was not a better short yardage guy then Brown or Payton, he was not a better TD guy than LT, and his heart? Everyone talks about that, 175 tds and acted like he never been there everytime he scored...but you call that heart? I call that an ego maniac. Heart is so subjective, its pathetic to use that to compare. Many people played through injuries, but other people on other teams dont need to broadcast it to make themselves look better. Maybe Barry or other people played through bad injuries, we wouldnt know, cuz not everyone was media attention #####s like Emmitt and the Cowboys.

 

[fsufan]

i will take Emmit due to he is a better short yardage RB(gaol-line and 3rd and short), best TD RB in the history of the NFL and one of the toughest players to every play the game(just watch the NY game when he was hurt). not sexy/flash like Barry but one hell of a RB.

Not even close

the guy gets no respect

164 rushing TDs

http://www.pro-football-reference.com/leaders/rush_td_career.htm

Rank

Player (age), + - HOFer, Bold - Active

TD

Years

Teams

1.

Emmitt Smith+

164

1990-2004

2TM

2.

LaDainian Tomlinson (31)

144

2001-2010

2TM

3.

Marcus Allen+

123

1982-1997

2TM

4.

Walter Payton+

110

1975-1987

chi

5.

Jim Brown+

106

1957-1965

cle

6.

John Riggins+

104

1971-1985

2TM

7.

Marshall Faulk+

100

1994-2005

2TM

Shaun Alexander

100

2000-2008

2TM

9.

Barry Sanders+

99

1989-1998

det

10.

Franco Harris+

91

1972-1984

2TM

Jerome Bettis

91

1993-2005

2TM

12.

Curtis Martin

90

1995-2005

2TM

Eric Dickerson+

90

1983-1993

4TM

14.

Priest Holmes

86

1997-2007

2TM

15.

Jim Taylor+

83

1958-1967

2TM

16.

Corey Dillon

82

1997-2006

2TM

17.

Ottis Anderson

81

1979-1992

2TM

18.

Edgerrin James

80

1999-2009

3TM

19.

Ricky Watters

78

1992-2001

3TM

20.

Tony Dorsett+

77

1977-1988

2TM

21.

Pete Johnson

76

1977-1984

3TM

22.

Clinton Portis (29)

75

2002-2010

2TM

23.

Leroy Kelly+

74

1964-1973

cle

Earl Campbell+

74

1978-1985

2TM

25.

Terry Allen

73

1991-2001

5TM

26.

Chuck Muncie

71

1976-1984

2TM

Joe Perry+

71

1948-1963

2TM

28.

Steve Van Buren+

69

1944-1951

phi

Gerald Riggs

69

1982-1991

2TM

30.

Thomas Jones (32)

68

2000-2010

5TM

Eddie George

68

1996-2004

2TM

 

[fsufan]

i will take Emmit due to he is a better short yardage RB(gaol-line and 3rd and short), best TD RB in the history of the NFL and one of the toughest players to every play the game(just watch the NY game when he was hurt). not sexy/flash like Barry but one hell of a RB.

Not even close

Not even an accurate post, Emmitt was not a better short yardage guy then Brown or Payton, he was not a better TD guy than LT, and his heart? Everyone talks about that, 175 tds and acted like he never been there everytime he scored...but you call that heart? I call that an ego maniac. Heart is so subjective, its pathetic to use that to compare. Many people played through injuries, but other people on other teams dont need to broadcast it to make themselves look better. Maybe Barry or other people played through bad injuries, we wouldnt know, cuz not everyone was media attention #####s like Emmitt and the Cowboys.

didnt i kick you out of one of my FF leagues

i see why i did that now

 

[JuSt CuZ]

i will take Emmit due to he is a better short yardage RB(gaol-line and 3rd and short), best TD RB in the history of the NFL and one of the toughest players to every play the game(just watch the NY game when he was hurt). not sexy/flash like Barry but one hell of a RB.

Not even close

Not even an accurate post, Emmitt was not a better short yardage guy then Brown or Payton, he was not a better TD guy than LT, and his heart? Everyone talks about that, 175 tds and acted like he never been there everytime he scored...but you call that heart? I call that an ego maniac. Heart is so subjective, its pathetic to use that to compare. Many people played through injuries, but other people on other teams dont need to broadcast it to make themselves look better. Maybe Barry or other people played through bad injuries, we wouldnt know, cuz not everyone was media attention #####s like Emmitt and the Cowboys.

didnt i kick you out of one of my FF leagues

i see why i did that now

Yes you did, and since we are being honest...Because I disagreed with you, and I'm sure your quick negative reaction to someone disagreeing with you here, dont make you look like a fair commish now does it...I believe I pointed that out that to you before, good commishes allow opinions.

I did not come here to argue with you cuz your upset someone dont agree with you, I came here to share my opinion about football, this is not your fantasy league...opinions are allowed here. I dont care to continue to banter like children.

A Childish remark from you to a complete smash of your comment was not needed, you could of simply responded with a few more reasons Emmitt is worthy of your ranking. Your a class act, and I thank you again for not exposing me to your league any longer.....3 years ago.

 

[Moniker]

Many people played through injuries, but other people on other teams dont need to broadcast it to make themselves look better. Maybe Barry or other people played through bad injuries, we wouldnt know, cuz not everyone was media attention #####s like Emmitt and the Cowboys.

Here's the bottom line for most of the Sanders backers, in my opinion. People, for whatever reason - whether it was their dominant run, their conceded attitude or his seemingly never-ending quest for stats, just don't like the Cowboys or Emmitt Smith. Hell, I don't like them either, but at least I can see past that and Barry's highlights and admit that Emmitt was the better running back.

 

[JuSt CuZ]

Many people played through injuries, but other people on other teams dont need to broadcast it to make themselves look better. Maybe Barry or other people played through bad injuries, we wouldnt know, cuz not everyone was media attention #####s like Emmitt and the Cowboys.

Here's the bottom line for most of the Sanders backers, in my opinion. People, for whatever reason - whether it was their dominant run, their conceded attitude or his seemingly never-ending quest for stats, just don't like the Cowboys or Emmitt Smith. Hell, I don't like them either, but at least I can see past that and Barry's highlights and admit that Emmitt was the better running back.

No one is disputing that Emmitt Smith was an awesome RB, we are just discussing who was better, and in doing that it takes pointing out the weakness of all involved. People are more prone to find weakness in Emmitts game based of many reasons the majority stated. The Emmitt fans are taking it a little to personal.... lol, but its still al fun to discuss it since we cant talk current football cuz of the lockout.

 

[yesitsme]

Emmitt was solid but IMO isn't even a HOF talent. Name me a back that wouldn't get similar numbers who is starting right now on a NFL team? The best O line ever built - with a great QB and a great WR in Irvin - then add in a stellar defense.

I respect Emmitts toughness but honestly the man isn't even in the discussion of the top 20 RB talents ever. So Many times Emmitts had holes that only college RB's ever see.

top 5 RB's in no order

Brown

Barry

Payton

OJ

Dickerson

HM

Faulk

That's terrible Moz, really it is. I can't even take your opinion seriously from here on in on other topics when you say things like this and you're being serious. You should start another name here on FBG and start over.

 

[yesitsme]

i will take Emmit due to he is a better short yardage RB(gaol-line and 3rd and short), best TD RB in the history of the NFL and one of the toughest players to every play the game(just watch the NY game when he was hurt). not sexy/flash like Barry but one hell of a RB.

Not even close

Not even an accurate post, Emmitt was not a better short yardage guy then Brown or Payton, he was not a better TD guy than LT, and his heart? Everyone talks about that, 175 tds and acted like he never been there everytime he scored...but you call that heart? I call that an ego maniac. Heart is so subjective, its pathetic to use that to compare. Many people played through injuries, but other people on other teams dont need to broadcast it to make themselves look better. Maybe Barry or other people played through bad injuries, we wouldnt know, cuz not everyone was media attention #####s like Emmitt and the Cowboys.

All 175 Td's were celebrated the same way? Or are you thinking of about 10 in intense situations where he was pumped up and did something out of that emotion? Ego maniac, he wasn't the guy calling the plays, he just carried the ball. It's not like he told Aikman the plays in the huddle, he carried the ball because they wanted to score points. I think the word pathetic is misused by you, it's not pathetic to use "heart" in the conversation. You may not agree with it because it's intangible but it's far from pathetic as that term doesn't even fit in this scenario.

 

[yesitsme]

Many people played through injuries, but other people on other teams dont need to broadcast it to make themselves look better. Maybe Barry or other people played through bad injuries, we wouldnt know, cuz not everyone was media attention #####s like Emmitt and the Cowboys.

Here's the bottom line for most of the Sanders backers, in my opinion. People, for whatever reason - whether it was their dominant run, their conceded attitude or his seemingly never-ending quest for stats, just don't like the Cowboys or Emmitt Smith. Hell, I don't like them either, but at least I can see past that and Barry's highlights and admit that Emmitt was the better running back.

No one is disputing that Emmitt Smith was an awesome RB, we are just discussing who was better, and in doing that it takes pointing out the weakness of all involved. People are more prone to find weakness in Emmitts game based of many reasons the majority stated. The Emmitt fans are taking it a little to personal.... lol, but its still al fun to discuss it since we cant talk current football cuz of the lockout.

Wrong again dude, just a couple posts up Moz is saying he's not a top 20 back and isn't even a Hall of Fame talent. To maintain some cred on what you're talking about, you need to stay current on the thread topic and be concise. I don't really care what side of the fence you are on this topic but it's hard to read when you are consistently innaccurate with many of your statements.

 

[yesitsme]

Both players were great contributors to there teams. Without Sanders the Lions weren't much.Barry didn't care about records. Emmitt did. Both of their careers reflect this. Different makeups. Different motivations.A few things about Sanders he improved very much as a blocker after his few years. He did get easily thrown around by blitzing LBs early in his career but he did improve and was at least adequate.Also early in his career he did get caught from behind on some of his breakaway runs. But that strangely stopped. Do not know how you become faster getting older but Sanders somehow refined his technique.Do not get the statement that Emmitt had more heart. Anyone who saw Sanders play never saw him give anything but his best effort.The fact that Troy Aikman had more Superbowls than Dan Marino doesn't make him a better QB than Marino or the Dallas punter a better punter than Ray Guy.

Barry got caught a few times from behind - it was the fact he was the most elusive runner in NFL history that makes him special. IMO folks made too much of his speed but he was still the most entertaining player at any position I have ever seen

Barry was caught a lot more times behind the line of scrimmage than "a few." However, he more than made up for it due to his ankle breaking plays. I also think you saying it was "fact" that he was the most elusive runner in history is subjective because what stat gives you that title?

 

[JuSt CuZ]

i will take Emmit due to he is a better short yardage RB(gaol-line and 3rd and short), best TD RB in the history of the NFL and one of the toughest players to every play the game(just watch the NY game when he was hurt). not sexy/flash like Barry but one hell of a RB.

Not even close

Not even an accurate post, Emmitt was not a better short yardage guy then Brown or Payton, he was not a better TD guy than LT, and his heart? Everyone talks about that, 175 tds and acted like he never been there everytime he scored...but you call that heart? I call that an ego maniac. Heart is so subjective, its pathetic to use that to compare. Many people played through injuries, but other people on other teams dont need to broadcast it to make themselves look better. Maybe Barry or other people played through bad injuries, we wouldnt know, cuz not everyone was media attention #####s like Emmitt and the Cowboys.

All 175 Td's were celebrated the same way? Or are you thinking of about 10 in intense situations where he was pumped up and did something out of that emotion? Ego maniac, he wasn't the guy calling the plays, he just carried the ball. It's not like he told Aikman the plays in the huddle, he carried the ball because they wanted to score points. I think the word pathetic is misused by you, it's not pathetic to use "heart" in the conversation. You may not agree with it because it's intangible but it's far from pathetic as that term doesn't even fit in this scenario.

Obviously you missed the point. If a person has more "Heart" is a matter of opinion, and while using an opinion to voice an opinion sounds odd, no? Some people are giving real statistical and historical proof, along with 85% of voting to back up their opinion...those are all facts. We are not resorting to a subjective terms as our defense. Example of what I mean...

Emmitt has more "heart', TDs, and yards than anyone else, so hes the better player is the argument from most.

Barry, dominated Emmitt in stats while playing at the same time, higher career ypc, more yards on less carries at time of retirement. Those are all facts, I'm not resorting to a term of "heart" as a defense, because I can make a case of "heart" for Barry since it is so subjective? Do you see my point? I'm sure you dont, as id does not help your case.

 

[JuSt CuZ]

Many people played through injuries, but other people on other teams dont need to broadcast it to make themselves look better. Maybe Barry or other people played through bad injuries, we wouldnt know, cuz not everyone was media attention #####s like Emmitt and the Cowboys.

Here's the bottom line for most of the Sanders backers, in my opinion. People, for whatever reason - whether it was their dominant run, their conceded attitude or his seemingly never-ending quest for stats, just don't like the Cowboys or Emmitt Smith. Hell, I don't like them either, but at least I can see past that and Barry's highlights and admit that Emmitt was the better running back.

No one is disputing that Emmitt Smith was an awesome RB, we are just discussing who was better, and in doing that it takes pointing out the weakness of all involved. People are more prone to find weakness in Emmitts game based of many reasons the majority stated. The Emmitt fans are taking it a little to personal.... lol, but its still al fun to discuss it since we cant talk current football cuz of the lockout.

Wrong again dude, just a couple posts up Moz is saying he's not a top 20 back and isn't even a Hall of Fame talent. To maintain some cred on what you're talking about, you need to stay current on the thread topic and be concise. I don't really care what side of the fence you are on this topic but it's hard to read when you are consistently innaccurate with many of your statements.

LOL, cred? is this something you have my friend? Stay current? LOL, seriously? This coming from the guy who just started posting in thread just a few minutes ago spouting off schtick, as I have been posting in this thread the whole time as I started it while also posting stats and breakdown....lmao @ u.To continue making you look foolish...

#20 of all-time still seems pretty awesome to me, no?

I'm glad your disecting something I said in regards to the majority, and mean it so directly to help make your point. I apologize when I said no one, I should of said everyone but one, lol are you serious dude?

I understand the Emmitt fans are fighting hard for there guy, but cant you guys spout of with football smack instead of taking different roads cuz your upset?

I think you lost all cred looking at your posts!

 

[JuSt CuZ]

i will take Emmit due to he is a better short yardage RB(gaol-line and 3rd and short), best TD RB in the history of the NFL and one of the toughest players to every play the game(just watch the NY game when he was hurt). not sexy/flash like Barry but one hell of a RB.

Not even close

Not even an accurate post, Emmitt was not a better short yardage guy then Brown or Payton, he was not a better TD guy than LT, and his heart? Everyone talks about that, 175 tds and acted like he never been there everytime he scored...but you call that heart? I call that an ego maniac. Heart is so subjective, its pathetic to use that to compare. Many people played through injuries, but other people on other teams dont need to broadcast it to make themselves look better. Maybe Barry or other people played through bad injuries, we wouldnt know, cuz not everyone was media attention #####s like Emmitt and the Cowboys.

All 175 Td's were celebrated the same way? Or are you thinking of about 10 in intense situations where he was pumped up and did something out of that emotion? Ego maniac, he wasn't the guy calling the plays, he just carried the ball. It's not like he told Aikman the plays in the huddle, he carried the ball because they wanted to score points. I think the word pathetic is misused by you, it's not pathetic to use "heart" in the conversation. You may not agree with it because it's intangible but it's far from pathetic as that term doesn't even fit in this scenario.

OMG Really?! I just noticed this dude who was talking about "heart" not being subjective, is now 2 seconds later, critisizing someone else for using something subjective? and he is talking about cred?

Classic, I love it!

 

[SaintsInDome2006]

This was a topic on PFT and Twiiter today, and I have been around here for a while and never really seen a topic just about them to to debate this.

What does the SP think? Barry or Emmitt?

Barry had a 2k season and 15,269 yards for a 5 ypc avg. with 109 TDs in 10 years.

Emmitt has a few SB titles and 18,355 yards for a 4.2 ypc avg. with 175 TDs in 15 years.

Well my take is, titles dont make you better runner, it means you were on a better team. We can split hairs, and I'm sure we will as this thread goes on, but I'm a Barry fan all day...so he gets my vote. Lets have a fun debate.

If Barry had played for the Cowboys teams Emmitt played for his numbers would have been....

 

[Mr Rodgers neighborhood]

If you're on the three yard line and need to punch it in who do you call? For me, it's Smith all day.

Like it was stated earlier, Sanders lost yardage 1/3 of the time. Emmitt on the other hand was going to get you a gain. He wouldn't break the crazy runs Sanders did, but you knew what you were getting every play.

When comparing Sanders/Smith number wise, we've got to remember that Sanders left the game still in his prime. Smith played into his mid 30's. And lets be honest, while Smith played behind some great lines, no one can or will say that Dallas was a juggernaut in the Chutch/Quincey era. Or the Cardinals debacle for that matter.

And Smith gets bonus points for doing what he did to the Giants with a bum shoulder.

 

[cobalt_27]

If you're on the three yard line and need to punch it in who do you call? For me, it's Smith all day. Like it was stated earlier, Sanders lost yardage 1/3 of the time. Emmitt on the other hand was going to get you a gain. He wouldn't break the crazy runs Sanders did, but you knew what you were getting every play. When comparing Sanders/Smith number wise, we've got to remember that Sanders left the game still in his prime. Smith played into his mid 30's. And lets be honest, while Smith played behind some great lines, no one can or will say that Dallas was a juggernaut in the Chutch/Quincey era. Or the Cardinals debacle for that matter. And Smith gets bonus points for doing what he did to the Giants with a bum shoulder.

Yup to all of that. Especially the Giants game. ####### Jimmy and Norv kept feeding the ball, too. It's not like he was a decoy or anything.

 

[PizzaDeliveryGuy]

If you're on the three yard line and need to punch it in who do you call? For me, it's Smith all day. Like it was stated earlier, Sanders lost yardage 1/3 of the time. Emmitt on the other hand was going to get you a gain. He wouldn't break the crazy runs Sanders did, but you knew what you were getting every play. When comparing Sanders/Smith number wise, we've got to remember that Sanders left the game still in his prime. Smith played into his mid 30's. And lets be honest, while Smith played behind some great lines, no one can or will say that Dallas was a juggernaut in the Chutch/Quincey era. Or the Cardinals debacle for that matter. And Smith gets bonus points for doing what he did to the Giants with a bum shoulder.

So when Emmitt wasn't surrounded by studs he didn't produce as well? Hmm.... Before entering this thread, I really had no idea how overrated Smith was. After looking at his numbers, his last 9 years in the league were pretty average. I'll give him one thing, he was a workhorse but a lot of you are putting longevity and opportunity way above actual ability.

 

[mcd]

Like it was stated earlier, Sanders lost yardage 1/3 of the time.

Where do people come up with this stuff?

 

[GregR_2]

Like it was stated earlier, Sanders lost yardage 1/3 of the time.

Where do people come up with this stuff?

Tell me about it. As soon as I see something like that it pretty much tells me I can ignore the rest of their post because they clearly aren't worried about their statements being based on actual facts or reality.

 

[AmosMoses]

Like it was stated earlier, Sanders lost yardage 1/3 of the time.

Where do people come up with this stuff?

Tell me about it. As soon as I see something like that it pretty much tells me I can ignore the rest of their post because they clearly aren't worried about their statements being based on actual facts or reality.

These are my same thoughts every time I read the "put Barry behind Emmitt's OL and viceversa..." foolishness.

 

[GregR_2]

Like it was stated earlier, Sanders lost yardage 1/3 of the time.

Where do people come up with this stuff?

Tell me about it. As soon as I see something like that it pretty much tells me I can ignore the rest of their post because they clearly aren't worried about their statements being based on actual facts or reality.

These are my same thoughts every time I read the "put Barry behind Emmitt's OL and viceversa..." foolishness.

Humongous difference between a hypothetical topic like that, and distorting actual hard numbers that really exist and have been posted in this thread.If someone claimed Barry rushed for 45,000 career yards, would you not consider that utterly ridiculous? Because that's what you get if you distort Barry's rushing yards by the same amount he distorted the negative yardage carries.