Calling all the Reggie Bush pimps (1 Viewer)

[Afro Samurai]

Probably too early for this but Reggie is on pace to break Marshall Faulk's single-season record for total yards from scrimmage. Faulk had 2429, Reggie is on pace for 2437.

 

[kingmalaki]

As far as real football goes, am I the only one that noticed when his team needed a yard at the end of the game (to prolong a drive)...he wasn't in there....similar to his college days. Bush is money this year in fantasy...but you honestly don't want your #2 pick to be able to get you a yard to prolong or seal a game? I recall another poster mentioning earlier how the ability to gain short yardage or run the clock out matters....

 

[moleculo]

I didn't know they played Denver in weeks 1 and 2 too.

Right, and bush has only played Denver this year...

at least 1/3 of the defenses RBush has faced so far this year isn't very good.Just sayin..

 

[KellysHeroes]

Hes leading the league in Recs for those of us that play PPR, he could go over 100 this yr

Avg over a 130 Rush/Rec yds a game for those that aren't playing PPR

4 TDs in 3 games

hes having a great yr, just admit it. He had some great Runs today, and one horrible fumble.

 

[NatronIsMean]

As far as real football goes, am I the only one that noticed when his team needed a yard at the end of the game (to prolong a drive)...he wasn't in there....similar to his college days. Bush is money this year in fantasy...but you honestly don't want your #2 pick to be able to get you a yard to prolong or seal a game? I recall another poster mentioning earlier how the ability to gain short yardage or run the clock out matters....

He's simply not that role on a team. So what? Honestly, he's not LT2 or Priest or other all around RBs, but as long as he scores TDs someway, somehow, he'll be a huge factor in helping his team win games. If he was able to do the goal line stuff as well, we'd be talking about a top 5 back, not a guy that I drafted in the 3rd round.

 

[kingmalaki]

As far as real football goes, am I the only one that noticed when his team needed a yard at the end of the game (to prolong a drive)...he wasn't in there....similar to his college days. Bush is money this year in fantasy...but you honestly don't want your #2 pick to be able to get you a yard to prolong or seal a game? I recall another poster mentioning earlier how the ability to gain short yardage or run the clock out matters....

He's simply not that role on a team. So what? Honestly, he's not LT2 or Priest or other all around RBs, but as long as he scores TDs someway, somehow, he'll be a huge factor in helping his team win games. If he was able to do the goal line stuff as well, we'd be talking about a top 5 back, not a guy that I drafted in the 3rd round.

That's the point. I think if you spend the #2 pick on a dude, then you want him to be that guy. Again, I'm talking real football and not FF. I think he is having a great year either way.

 

[Judge Smails]

As far as real football goes, am I the only one that noticed when his team needed a yard at the end of the game (to prolong a drive)...he wasn't in there....similar to his college days. Bush is money this year in fantasy...but you honestly don't want your #2 pick to be able to get you a yard to prolong or seal a game? I recall another poster mentioning earlier how the ability to gain short yardage or run the clock out matters....

I actually think this will change from here on out. They lost BECAUSE Bush wasn't out there. 3rd and goal from the 1, Bush can just go up and over no problem. Thomas got stopped twice in short yardage, including the crucial one at the end of the game. Sure, he's not a pound it type back, but he gives them so many options.

 

[KellysHeroes]

As far as real football goes, am I the only one that noticed when his team needed a yard at the end of the game (to prolong a drive)...he wasn't in there....similar to his college days. Bush is money this year in fantasy...but you honestly don't want your #2 pick to be able to get you a yard to prolong or seal a game? I recall another poster mentioning earlier how the ability to gain short yardage or run the clock out matters....

I actually think this will change from here on out. They lost BECAUSE Bush wasn't out there. 3rd and goal from the 1, Bush can just go up and over no problem. Thomas got stopped twice in short yardage, including the crucial one at the end of the game. Sure, he's not a pound it type back, but he gives them so many options.

I agree... I know Thomas had a couple of TDs, but He looked awful in those goalline attempts today. Reggie is actually very effective in short yardage plays, check the stats from last yr... u may be surprised.I bet that Thomas begins to lose those Goalline carries, but continues to get a dozen or so touches a game.

 

[Chaka]

As far as real football goes, am I the only one that noticed when his team needed a yard at the end of the game (to prolong a drive)...he wasn't in there....similar to his college days. Bush is money this year in fantasy...but you honestly don't want your #2 pick to be able to get you a yard to prolong or seal a game? I recall another poster mentioning earlier how the ability to gain short yardage or run the clock out matters....

He's simply not that role on a team. So what? Honestly, he's not LT2 or Priest or other all around RBs, but as long as he scores TDs someway, somehow, he'll be a huge factor in helping his team win games. If he was able to do the goal line stuff as well, we'd be talking about a top 5 back, not a guy that I drafted in the 3rd round.

That's the point. I think if you spend the #2 pick on a dude, then you want him to be that guy. Again, I'm talking real football and not FF. I think he is having a great year either way.

You are trying so hard to justify simply not liking Bush.He had one huge negative play in this game but there is no way they are even close at the end without the guy.Bush and Brees drive that offense.

 

[Chaka]

I think we all have a problem with the way Reggie seems to dance around and look for the big play instead of just putting his helmet down and driving for as much yardage as is available. However I am starting to believe that Payton is coaching him up to look for home run plays and not settle for the safe plays.

 

[KellysHeroes]

The Bush hate has to stop... I have never seen such hate for one person. For those that don't like what he does, just admit it.. hes by far the most improved player of the yr so far. Hes gained over 140 total 2 times in 3 games, and has posted a 4+ YPC in those 2 games... just stop, hes a stud... just admit that you missed out when people like me brought low on him.

 

[kingmalaki]

As far as real football goes, am I the only one that noticed when his team needed a yard at the end of the game (to prolong a drive)...he wasn't in there....similar to his college days. Bush is money this year in fantasy...but you honestly don't want your #2 pick to be able to get you a yard to prolong or seal a game? I recall another poster mentioning earlier how the ability to gain short yardage or run the clock out matters....

He's simply not that role on a team. So what? Honestly, he's not LT2 or Priest or other all around RBs, but as long as he scores TDs someway, somehow, he'll be a huge factor in helping his team win games. If he was able to do the goal line stuff as well, we'd be talking about a top 5 back, not a guy that I drafted in the 3rd round.

That's the point. I think if you spend the #2 pick on a dude, then you want him to be that guy. Again, I'm talking real football and not FF. I think he is having a great year either way.

You are trying so hard to justify simply not liking Bush.He had one huge negative play in this game but there is no way they are even close at the end without the guy.Bush and Brees drive that offense.

Sure...if you say so. So you don't agree that a coaching staff would prefer to have a back that they could rely on in short yardage situations when they spend a #2 pick? I agree that Brees and Bush drive the offense, and Bush is having a productive year. But I don't think you want your main guy on the bench when it's time to seal the game...similar to the Rose Bowl vs UT.

 

[Chaka]

As far as real football goes, am I the only one that noticed when his team needed a yard at the end of the game (to prolong a drive)...he wasn't in there....similar to his college days. Bush is money this year in fantasy...but you honestly don't want your #2 pick to be able to get you a yard to prolong or seal a game? I recall another poster mentioning earlier how the ability to gain short yardage or run the clock out matters....

He's simply not that role on a team. So what? Honestly, he's not LT2 or Priest or other all around RBs, but as long as he scores TDs someway, somehow, he'll be a huge factor in helping his team win games. If he was able to do the goal line stuff as well, we'd be talking about a top 5 back, not a guy that I drafted in the 3rd round.

That's the point. I think if you spend the #2 pick on a dude, then you want him to be that guy. Again, I'm talking real football and not FF. I think he is having a great year either way.

You are trying so hard to justify simply not liking Bush.He had one huge negative play in this game but there is no way they are even close at the end without the guy.Bush and Brees drive that offense.

Sure...if you say so. So you don't agree that a coaching staff would prefer to have a back that they could rely on in short yardage situations when they spend a #2 pick? I agree that Brees and Bush drive the offense, and Bush is having a productive year. But I don't think you want your main guy on the bench when it's time to seal the game...similar to the Rose Bowl vs UT.

I believe that Payton wants Reggie to be the big play threat in that offense. He wants the defense to never know where he is going to be and create all kinds of matchup problems and draw extra attention allowing other players to make big plays. In short to do the things that you expect from the #2 overall selection in the draft. I believe that Payton wants Pierre Thomas (or likely Deuce as the season wears on) to be the hammer that churns out the tough yards.You seem to think that being the #2 overall selection dictates that Reggie should fit a certain mold that satisfies your vision of a RB. That is a mistake, great coaches game plan to their players strengths they don't force them into a system that limits what they do best.I also believe that the lions share of the problems for the Saints in short yardage situations falls on the offensive line. They pass block like no other line in the league (Brees was sacked the fewest times last season despite throwing the most passes), but they don't seem to be mean enough (or whatever it takes) to grind out the tough yards.

 

[valhallan]

I think we all have a problem with the way Reggie seems to dance around and look for the big play instead of just putting his helmet down and driving for as much yardage as is available.

Definitely.

However I am starting to believe that Payton is coaching him up to look for home run plays and not settle for the safe plays.

I guess that's possible, but I doubt it. Reggie has been able to break the big play his entire football life and he's had plenty of impressive moments in the NFL. Maybe he thinks he'll eventually be able to break them consistently rather than randomly.

 

[kingmalaki]

I believe that Payton wants Reggie to be the big play threat in that offense. He wants the defense to never know where he is going to be and create all kinds of matchup problems and draw extra attention allowing other players to make big plays. In short to do the things that you expect from the #2 overall selection in the draft.

So it's unreasonable to expect someone to do that and be able to pick up key short yardage situations late in games?

You seem to think that being the #2 overall selection dictates that Reggie should fit a certain mold that satisfies your vision of a RB. That is a mistake, great coaches game plan to their players strengths they don't force them into a system that limits what they do best.

My vision of a high paid, highly picked RB is of one that can be on the field to get key short yardage and not be on the sideline. I can't think of any great RB that would be on the sideline in that situation. Can you? If so, I would love to see a list of these RB's. I don't see how that's too much to ask for. Being a home run threat is fine and Bush has been very productive this season. But similar to that Rose Bowl, when the game was tight and his team needed someone to churn yards (i.e. in a situation where you really don't want to pass), he was on the sidelines. I don't see how anyone can say that isn't a weakness in a RB's game...at least one whose goal is to go down as one of the greats.

 

[Chaka]

I think we all have a problem with the way Reggie seems to dance around and look for the big play instead of just putting his helmet down and driving for as much yardage as is available.

Definitely.

However I am starting to believe that Payton is coaching him up to look for home run plays and not settle for the safe plays.

I guess that's possible, but I doubt it. Reggie has been able to break the big play his entire football life and he's had plenty of impressive moments in the NFL. Maybe he thinks he'll eventually be able to break them consistently rather than randomly.

I used to think that way too but it's not like he cannot be coached. It takes time to break instinct but, despite what some may wish to believe, Reggie is not stupid and could learn to duck his head down. I may be wrong but I really think he is being coached to look for the big play, or at the very least he is not being told to change his running style.

 

[FreeBaGeL]

As far as real football goes, am I the only one that noticed when his team needed a yard at the end of the game (to prolong a drive)...he wasn't in there....similar to his college days. Bush is money this year in fantasy...but you honestly don't want your #2 pick to be able to get you a yard to prolong or seal a game? I recall another poster mentioning earlier how the ability to gain short yardage or run the clock out matters....

He's simply not that role on a team. So what? Honestly, he's not LT2 or Priest or other all around RBs, but as long as he scores TDs someway, somehow, he'll be a huge factor in helping his team win games. If he was able to do the goal line stuff as well, we'd be talking about a top 5 back, not a guy that I drafted in the 3rd round.

That's the point. I think if you spend the #2 pick on a dude, then you want him to be that guy. Again, I'm talking real football and not FF. I think he is having a great year either way.

You are trying so hard to justify simply not liking Bush.He had one huge negative play in this game but there is no way they are even close at the end without the guy.Bush and Brees drive that offense.

Sure...if you say so. So you don't agree that a coaching staff would prefer to have a back that they could rely on in short yardage situations when they spend a #2 pick? I agree that Brees and Bush drive the offense, and Bush is having a productive year. But I don't think you want your main guy on the bench when it's time to seal the game...similar to the Rose Bowl vs UT.

Kingmalaki, you're reaching hard here. He was drafted for a role and he's doing it very well at this point. Since when does being a high draft pick mean he has to do everything? LT doesn't play defense or kickoff coverage...Sure, Bush isn't the best short yardage back. But how many good short yardage backs can do what Bush can in the role that Bush has? Zero.New Orleans knew that Bush wasn't a great short yardage back when they drafted him #2, yet they still saw fit to draft him #2. There are also tons of RBs that get drafted in the top 5 and can't catch a pass if their life depended on it. Same difference.

 

[TakiToki]

I believe that Payton wants Reggie to be the big play threat in that offense. He wants the defense to never know where he is going to be and create all kinds of matchup problems and draw extra attention allowing other players to make big plays. In short to do the things that you expect from the #2 overall selection in the draft.

So it's unreasonable to expect someone to do that and be able to pick up key short yardage situations late in games?

You seem to think that being the #2 overall selection dictates that Reggie should fit a certain mold that satisfies your vision of a RB. That is a mistake, great coaches game plan to their players strengths they don't force them into a system that limits what they do best.

My vision of a high paid, highly picked RB is of one that can be on the field to get key short yardage and not be on the sideline. I can't think of any great RB that would be on the sideline in that situation. Can you? If so, I would love to see a list of these RB's. I don't see how that's too much to ask for. Being a home run threat is fine and Bush has been very productive this season. But similar to that Rose Bowl, when the game was tight and his team needed someone to churn yards (i.e. in a situation where you really don't want to pass), he was on the sidelines. I don't see how anyone can say that isn't a weakness in a RB's game...at least one whose goal is to go down as one of the greats.

Barry Sanders, Curtis Martin and Tony Dorsett were not a part of goal-line and short-yardage packages at various points of their primes. I'm not claiming Bush is anywhere near their league, of course.

 

[Chaka]

So it's unreasonable to expect someone to do that and be able to pick up key short yardage situations late in games?

Strawman.

My vision of a high paid, highly picked RB is of one that can be on the field to get key short yardage and not be on the sideline.

That's fine.

I can't think of any great RB that would be on the sideline in that situation. Can you? If so, I would love to see a list of these RB's. I don't see how that's too much to ask for. Being a home run threat is fine and Bush has been very productive this season.

This is a tough one mainly because I don't want to try and dig into so many players conversion rates on short yardage situations. Edge immediately comes to mind as a particularly average runner in short yardage situations, to the point that he often pulls himself out of games in those situations (in Indy and Arizona). He has scored a lot of TDs but that is also a product of being on such a great offense for so many years. Barry was none to special in short yardage situations either. But I am not going to start stat crunching to answer this question because it would be far to time consuming and I doubt any data to support Bush would be convincing in your eyes.

But similar to that Rose Bowl, when the game was tight and his team needed someone to churn yards (i.e. in a situation where you really don't want to pass), he was on the sidelines. I don't see how anyone can say that isn't a weakness in a RB's game...at least one whose goal is to go down as one of the greats.

What did you expect Pete Carroll to do? LenDale scored 24 rushing TDs that season, how do you not put him in there when you need a yard. It was not a knock on Reggie it was recognition of USC's other phenomenal running back.

 

[kingmalaki]

Kingmalaki, you're reaching hard here. He was drafted for a role and he's doing it very well at this point. Since when does being a high draft pick mean he has to do everything? LT doesn't play defense or kickoff coverage...Sure, Bush isn't the best short yardage back. But how many good short yardage backs can do what Bush can in the role that Bush has? Zero.New Orleans knew that Bush wasn't a great short yardage back when they drafted him #2, yet they still saw fit to draft him #2. There are also tons of RBs that get drafted in the top 5 and can't catch a pass if their life depended on it. Same difference.

I pose the same question to you...please list for me your list of great RB's that couldn't be relied on in short yardage situations...or to run the clock late in games? I'm sure the Saints picked Bush #2 with the expectations of him being great, not filling a role. Sorry....I just don't believe you spend #2 picks on dudes to fill roles, especially not QB's, WR's or RB's. Players picked there are expected to be great players.Bush has been very effective this season. No one is denying that. But I find it hard to believe that a team would not want to use it's highly paid RB in those late game situations. That just doesn't make much sense. Once I saw that he wasnt on the field during winning time it immediately made me think of this post:

And for those that don't understand football. Not FFB. The NFL. Running the ball runs the clock out. Passing the ball stops the clock on an incomplete pass. Mike Martz tried to win in the NFL without a balanced attack. It worked for a little while and then people figured it out and he has been bouncing around the league ever since. In order to win in the NFL one has to run the ball and stop the run. Plain and simple. Teams that can't run don't win. The fact that he can't run may mean nothing to you in your FFB score but it means something to the coaches of the Saints and opposing coaches. But if he can't run he's going to get less and less chances to run and eventually his opportunity to touch the ball will drop. Now, try to make a point without taking shots.

A team won't always come across those situations...but when they do I would think they would want to use their RB. This was the 2nd time I have seen this happen to Bush....and I can't think of any great back that would be sitting on the sideline in those situations. It's that simple.......

 

[Chaka]

I pose the same question to you...please list for me your list of great RB's that couldn't be relied on in short yardage situations...or to run the clock late in games?

Barry Sanders.

 

[p00h]

SO many poor analogies and convoluted logic to prove Bush is not all that. Being picked #2 overall has nothing to do with him being a short yard back, where do you come up with this crap?!? First of all, there are a ton of #1s and #2s overall that amounted to crap in the league. He was drafted #2 to be a homerun hitter. And, as many have stated here before, I believe if given the chance, he can grind out the tough 2-3 yard runs when necessary. I don't watch them enough to know what teh OLine is like, but the consensus seems to be they are not well suited to running between teh tackles. And what is the problem with bringing in someone to get the tough 2-3 yards on a 3-2, whether its in the 2nd quarter or with 2 minutes left and your team down?!? What reggie brings to the table for teh rest of the game is well worth that tradeoff. That team is built to throw anyways, all their weapons are geared towards that, and thats how they will be in the near future. That makes bush the ideal RB for that offense, and while its only been 3 games, he is showing exactly what he can bring to that offense. I have very little doubt we start seeing some of those 70 yard tds on a screen etc. He can run for a 3.x ypc for the rest of his career, and still be a probowl calibur rb...

 

[kingmalaki]

I pose the same question to you...please list for me your list of great RB's that couldn't be relied on in short yardage situations...or to run the clock late in games?

Barry Sanders.

Maybe we watched different games, because I don't recall Sanders on the sidelines too many times when it was time to put a game away or kill clock in the end...or score.

 

[Chaos Commish]

I pose the same question to you...please list for me your list of great RB's that couldn't be relied on in short yardage situations...or to run the clock late in games?

Barry Sanders.

Maybe we watched different games, because I don't recall Sanders on the sidelines too many times when it was time to put a game away or kill clock in the end...or score.

Sanders being pulled in short yardage and goal line situations is one of the more common themes among his detractors.

 

[valhallan]

I think we all have a problem with the way Reggie seems to dance around and look for the big play instead of just putting his helmet down and driving for as much yardage as is available.

Definitely.

However I am starting to believe that Payton is coaching him up to look for home run plays and not settle for the safe plays.

I guess that's possible, but I doubt it. Reggie has been able to break the big play his entire football life and he's had plenty of impressive moments in the NFL. Maybe he thinks he'll eventually be able to break them consistently rather than randomly.

I used to think that way too but it's not like he cannot be coached. It takes time to break instinct but, despite what some may wish to believe, Reggie is not stupid and could learn to duck his head down. I may be wrong but I really think he is being coached to look for the big play, or at the very least he is not being told to change his running style.

Reggie is definitely smart, which is a key reason I've been begrudgingly patient with him in dynasty. Given the many poor decisions Payton has made over the years, you might be right that he's been coaching Bush that way.It's a sad situation as a Saints fan, because we obviously have some of the best talent we'll ever have with Brees and Bush. If Payton doesn't get a clue soon, the window will close and we'll always wonder if they could have been special.

 

[Chaka]

I pose the same question to you...please list for me your list of great RB's that couldn't be relied on in short yardage situations...or to run the clock late in games?

Barry Sanders.

Maybe we watched different games, because I don't recall Sanders on the sidelines too many times when it was time to put a game away or kill clock in the end...or score.

I answered the question. Barry was dropped for a loss or no gain on a greater percentage of his carries than any running back in league history. He could not be relied on to get those tough yards.Considering the general ineffectiveness of Pierre Thomas (3.4ypc) it won't be long before Deuce gets his shot in that role, if he proves ineffective then we may see Reggie in for those situations too before the season is over.

 

[kremenull]

Just poll the Defensive Coordinators in the NFL and see how much sleep they get during the week preparing for Reggie Bush, who is THE focal point of that Saints offense.....Take him out of the lineup and Brees is less effective, Colston would be double-teamed constantly, and the Saints would score about 7-10 fewer pts per game......This guy is a game-changer, but more importantly, he allows others to shine due to the tremendous amount of attention he garners from defenses......That's what I'd expect from my #2 overall selection, IMPACT!......Go get a 4th-5th Rder to convert short-yardage.....

 

[norton17]

List Bush as "offensive weapon" then instead of RB.

Bush is everything on offense, and makes the defense accountable at all times.

Bush returns punts, why doen't LT, Larry Johnson, etc do that???

Its because they are different weapons.

I don't think New Orleans is the least bit concerned about Bush being on the bench late in games when trying to kill the clock...thats not his role. HIs job is to put up the points, or help generate big comebacks.

 

[Chaka]

I think we should also note that the offense doesn't seem to have slowed down much despite losing Marques Colston. One less headache for defensive coordinators to worry about and Reggie is still performing well.

 

[Short Corner]

As far as real football goes, am I the only one that noticed when his team needed a yard at the end of the game (to prolong a drive)...he wasn't in there....similar to his college days. Bush is money this year in fantasy...but you honestly don't want your #2 pick to be able to get you a yard to prolong or seal a game? I recall another poster mentioning earlier how the ability to gain short yardage or run the clock out matters....

He's simply not that role on a team. So what? Honestly, he's not LT2 or Priest or other all around RBs, but as long as he scores TDs someway, somehow, he'll be a huge factor in helping his team win games. If he was able to do the goal line stuff as well, we'd be talking about a top 5 back, not a guy that I drafted in the 3rd round.

That's the point. I think if you spend the #2 pick on a dude, then you want him to be that guy. Again, I'm talking real football and not FF. I think he is having a great year either way.

You are trying so hard to justify simply not liking Bush.He had one huge negative play in this game but there is no way they are even close at the end without the guy.Bush and Brees drive that offense.

Sure...if you say so. So you don't agree that a coaching staff would prefer to have a back that they could rely on in short yardage situations when they spend a #2 pick? I agree that Brees and Bush drive the offense, and Bush is having a productive year. But I don't think you want your main guy on the bench when it's time to seal the game...similar to the Rose Bowl vs UT.

Have you been paying attention the past few years? RBBC is the future of the NFL.

 

[Short Corner]

I pose the same question to you...please list for me your list of great RB's that couldn't be relied on in short yardage situations...or to run the clock late in games?

Barry Sanders.

Maybe we watched different games, because I don't recall Sanders on the sidelines too many times when it was time to put a game away or kill clock in the end...or score.

He was that guy played for the Detroit Lions.

 

[Blackjacks]

Everyone is blaming Bush for not getting the short yards but I'm wondering how can you blame him for that if he doesn't get a chance to. For some reason Coach Payton refuses to use Reggie in short rushing opportunities even though his track record isn't that bad (did a write up on it in the summer). I don't blame Reggie for not getting a chance to rush it I blame Payton for not giving the ball to his best RUNNING BACK.

By the way, the game against Texas Lendale was carving them up inside. I won't take anything away from Reggie there when you have a better insider runner as an option.

 

[Jayrod]

Dear Fanatic,

It is.

Sincerely,

Jayrod

 

[kingmalaki]

I pose the same question to you...please list for me your list of great RB's that couldn't be relied on in short yardage situations...or to run the clock late in games?

Barry Sanders.

Maybe we watched different games, because I don't recall Sanders on the sidelines too many times when it was time to put a game away or kill clock in the end...or score.

He was that guy played for the Detroit Lions.

Yeah, the same guy who could have had the leagues rushing record if he wanted it. I don't recall seeing him on the pine too often with the game on the line, when the team was trying to drive and pick up a first to extend a potential game winning drive or run clock to seal a game. Guys keep bringing up goal-line opportunities and I never even mentioned those. I mentioned times at the end of games when you need your RB to get you yards, and he is on the bench instead for whatever reason.

As far as real football goes, am I the only one that noticed when his team needed a yard at the end of the game (to prolong a drive)...he wasn't in there....similar to his college days. Bush is money this year in fantasy...but you honestly don't want your #2 pick to be able to get you a yard to prolong or seal a game? I recall another poster mentioning earlier how the ability to gain short yardage or run the clock out matters....

Bush is a great weapon but in those situations the team can't/won't rely on him. It's similar to Shaq being a great offensive weapon but a liability late in games because ha can't make free throws. Rarely is it exposed but when it is, it is.Good point for whoever mentioned the RBBC's these days.

 

[MCguidance]

I understand the point of Bush being an ineffective short yardage runner. But at what point is he given consideration for that role if the Saints are not moving the ball during those short yardage plays?

 

[TheFanatic]

As far as real football goes, am I the only one that noticed when his team needed a yard at the end of the game (to prolong a drive)...he wasn't in there....similar to his college days. Bush is money this year in fantasy...but you honestly don't want your #2 pick to be able to get you a yard to prolong or seal a game? I recall another poster mentioning earlier how the ability to gain short yardage or run the clock out matters....

He's simply not that role on a team. So what? Honestly, he's not LT2 or Priest or other all around RBs, but as long as he scores TDs someway, somehow, he'll be a huge factor in helping his team win games. If he was able to do the goal line stuff as well, we'd be talking about a top 5 back, not a guy that I drafted in the 3rd round.

That's the point. I think if you spend the #2 pick on a dude, then you want him to be that guy. Again, I'm talking real football and not FF. I think he is having a great year either way.

You are trying so hard to justify simply not liking Bush.He had one huge negative play in this game but there is no way they are even close at the end without the guy.

Bush and Brees drive that offense.

Sure...if you say so. So you don't agree that a coaching staff would prefer to have a back that they could rely on in short yardage situations when they spend a #2 pick? I agree that Brees and Bush drive the offense, and Bush is having a productive year. But I don't think you want your main guy on the bench when it's time to seal the game...similar to the Rose Bowl vs UT.

Kingmalaki, you're reaching hard here. He was drafted for a role and he's doing it very well at this point. Since when does being a high draft pick mean he has to do everything? LT doesn't play defense or kickoff coverage...Sure, Bush isn't the best short yardage back. But how many good short yardage backs can do what Bush can in the role that Bush has? Zero.

New Orleans knew that Bush wasn't a great short yardage back when they drafted him #2, yet they still saw fit to draft him #2. There are also tons of RBs that get drafted in the top 5 and can't catch a pass if their life depended on it. Same difference.

I actually think he was drafted to be an every down traditional back or they wouldn't have spent that high a pick on him. Now it would seem that they have put him in the role that is better suited to his skills. We talked about it last year in the MJD/Bush debate. The only way that Bush is going to have a long, and successful career is if they avoid using him up the gut. Keep him to the outside, lots of dump passes, and line him up in the slot like the Rams did with Faulk. That being said, having a 4.1 YPC in one game does not make him a great RB.

 

[MCguidance]

As far as real football goes, am I the only one that noticed when his team needed a yard at the end of the game (to prolong a drive)...he wasn't in there....similar to his college days. Bush is money this year in fantasy...but you honestly don't want your #2 pick to be able to get you a yard to prolong or seal a game? I recall another poster mentioning earlier how the ability to gain short yardage or run the clock out matters....

He's simply not that role on a team. So what? Honestly, he's not LT2 or Priest or other all around RBs, but as long as he scores TDs someway, somehow, he'll be a huge factor in helping his team win games. If he was able to do the goal line stuff as well, we'd be talking about a top 5 back, not a guy that I drafted in the 3rd round.

That's the point. I think if you spend the #2 pick on a dude, then you want him to be that guy. Again, I'm talking real football and not FF. I think he is having a great year either way.

You are trying so hard to justify simply not liking Bush.He had one huge negative play in this game but there is no way they are even close at the end without the guy.

Bush and Brees drive that offense.

Sure...if you say so. So you don't agree that a coaching staff would prefer to have a back that they could rely on in short yardage situations when they spend a #2 pick? I agree that Brees and Bush drive the offense, and Bush is having a productive year. But I don't think you want your main guy on the bench when it's time to seal the game...similar to the Rose Bowl vs UT.

Kingmalaki, you're reaching hard here. He was drafted for a role and he's doing it very well at this point. Since when does being a high draft pick mean he has to do everything? LT doesn't play defense or kickoff coverage...Sure, Bush isn't the best short yardage back. But how many good short yardage backs can do what Bush can in the role that Bush has? Zero.

New Orleans knew that Bush wasn't a great short yardage back when they drafted him #2, yet they still saw fit to draft him #2. There are also tons of RBs that get drafted in the top 5 and can't catch a pass if their life depended on it. Same difference.

I actually think he was drafted to be an every down traditional back or they wouldn't have spent that high a pick on him. Now it would seem that they have put him in the role that is better suited to his skills. We talked about it last year in the MJD/Bush debate. The only way that Bush is going to have a long, and successful career is if they avoid using him up the gut. Keep him to the outside, lots of dump passes, and line him up in the slot like the Rams did with Faulk. That being said, having a 4.1 YPC in one game does not make him a great RB.

But that's being shortsighted - since he also had close to 150 total yards and 2 TDs. That makes him a very good - if not great - RB.

 

[TheFanatic]

The Bush hate has to stop... I have never seen such hate for one person. For those that don't like what he does, just admit it.. hes by far the most improved player of the yr so far. Hes gained over 140 total 2 times in 3 games, and has posted a 4+ YPC in those 2 games... just stop, hes a stud... just admit that you missed out when people like me brought low on him.

Where are you getting these numbers? He's had 3.6, 2.8 and 4.1 YPC in his first 3 games...

 

[Jason Wood]

He, once again, proved to be an absolute BEAST yesterday from a fantasy perspective. In PPR I can't imagine a guy I would want more right now, particularly with Westy hurt.

 

[Road Warriors]

As far as real football goes, am I the only one that noticed when his team needed a yard at the end of the game (to prolong a drive)...he wasn't in there....similar to his college days. Bush is money this year in fantasy...but you honestly don't want your #2 pick to be able to get you a yard to prolong or seal a game? I recall another poster mentioning earlier how the ability to gain short yardage or run the clock out matters....

He's simply not that role on a team. So what? Honestly, he's not LT2 or Priest or other all around RBs, but as long as he scores TDs someway, somehow, he'll be a huge factor in helping his team win games. If he was able to do the goal line stuff as well, we'd be talking about a top 5 back, not a guy that I drafted in the 3rd round.

That's the point. I think if you spend the #2 pick on a dude, then you want him to be that guy. Again, I'm talking real football and not FF. I think he is having a great year either way.

You are trying so hard to justify simply not liking Bush.He had one huge negative play in this game but there is no way they are even close at the end without the guy.Bush and Brees drive that offense.

Sure...if you say so. So you don't agree that a coaching staff would prefer to have a back that they could rely on in short yardage situations when they spend a #2 pick? I agree that Brees and Bush drive the offense, and Bush is having a productive year. But I don't think you want your main guy on the bench when it's time to seal the game...similar to the Rose Bowl vs UT.

I don't agree. I think a staff would prefer their #2 overall pick is a game breaker, someone that makes opponents gameplan around them, someone that can change a game on one play. There aren't many of those players in the league. Go find a Zack Crockett type of bull to pound the 3rd & 1. There are a whole lot more downhill between the tackle pounders in the league than dual threat homerun hitters.Reggie will likely average > 100 yds from scrimmage weekly, and looks like he should be in double digit TDs. That's the guy you want from your #2 overall pick.

 

[Doug B]

I actually think he was drafted to be an every down traditional back or they wouldn't have spent that high a pick on him.

They may have hoped for him to be an every-down traditional back, but there was a more compelling reason for the Saints to take Bush.Recall that the 2005 season was the season in which the Saints' home dates were washed away by Hurricane Katrina. Owner Tom Benson had made some comments favoring San Antonio as a possible site for relocation. San Antonio was charging hard to get the team permanently.Going into the 2006 draft, Benson had softened his stance, but still sought assurances that the team could remain viable in New Orleans. One thing that would help that effort was for the team to have some bona fide ticket-selling stars in the fold. Easier said than done with the #2 pick -- the Saints were set to take Mario Williams and hope for the best.Reggie Bush fell into the Saints lap, and the team saw dollar signs. And on that end, it has worked out better than anyone imagined it would. Doesn't mean he's an all-time great tailback or anything like that -- it just means that from the Saints' multi-faceted viewpoint (on-field plus tickets plus profile in the media plus merchandise/marketing), Bush has paid off in spades.

 

[wadegarrett]

He, once again, proved to be an absolute BEAST yesterday from a fantasy perspective. In PPR I can't imagine a guy I would want more right now, particularly with Westy hurt.

#1 RB in my league right now.And he's on my team.

 

[LILB811]

I actually think he was drafted to be an every down traditional back or they wouldn't have spent that high a pick on him.

They may have hoped for him to be an every-down traditional back, but there was a more compelling reason for the Saints to take Bush.Recall that the 2005 season was the season in which the Saints' home dates were washed away by Hurricane Katrina. Owner Tom Benson had made some comments favoring San Antonio as a possible site for relocation. San Antonio was charging hard to get the team permanently.Going into the 2006 draft, Benson had softened his stance, but still sought assurances that the team could remain viable in New Orleans. One thing that would help that effort was for the team to have some bona fide ticket-selling stars in the fold. Easier said than done with the #2 pick -- the Saints were set to take Mario Williams and hope for the best.Reggie Bush fell into the Saints lap, and the team saw dollar signs. And on that end, it has worked out better than anyone imagined it would. Doesn't mean he's an all-time great tailback or anything like that -- it just means that from the Saints' multi-faceted viewpoint (on-field plus tickets plus profile in the media plus merchandise/marketing), Bush has paid off in spades.

The Saints needed Reggie, and they still do now not only for the team, but for that city also. Bush wasn't an every down back at USC and the Saints had Deuce when Reggie was drafted so I'm pretty sure they knew what they were getting. He only carried the ball more than 20 times twice in his college career and in those two games he had almost 800 all purpose yards.I was most impressed yesterday by his screen TD that got called back for a holding penalty. As soon as he got the ball in his hands he was gone. Unbelievable talent and such an exciting player to watch. If I'm Payton, I know that he's the best player on the field and I want to keep him fresh so he can make plays like that screen TD. If he's in fighting for the tough yardage between the tackles on 3rd and 1, maybe on the next play he doesn't have that burst to take it to the house because he's a little winded. It's really not a knock on Reggie and he's certainly no bust because of it, but you need to utilize your best players to their strengths. Bush's strength is getting the ball in his hands in the open field.

 

[Blackjacks]

The Bush hate has to stop... I have never seen such hate for one person. For those that don't like what he does, just admit it.. hes by far the most improved player of the yr so far. Hes gained over 140 total 2 times in 3 games, and has posted a 4+ YPC in those 2 games... just stop, hes a stud... just admit that you missed out when people like me brought low on him.

Where are you getting these numbers? He's had 3.6, 2.8 and 4.1 YPC in his first 3 games...

It's okay to say your wrong when all signs point that way. However, it is still early so I'll just stop right there.I should change that to saying so far you've been wrong and he has been very good.Just say it Scotty........Bush has looked better this year than I thought he had in years' past and maybe he is a little better than what I had earlier thought

 

[valhallan]

The Bush hate has to stop... I have never seen such hate for one person. For those that don't like what he does, just admit it.. hes by far the most improved player of the yr so far. Hes gained over 140 total 2 times in 3 games, and has posted a 4+ YPC in those 2 games... just stop, hes a stud... just admit that you missed out when people like me brought low on him.

Where are you getting these numbers? He's had 3.6, 2.8 and 4.1 YPC in his first 3 games...

It's okay to say your wrong when all signs point that way. However, it is still early so I'll just stop right there.I should change that to saying so far you've been wrong and he has been very good.Just say it Scotty........Bush has looked better this year than I thought he had in years' past and maybe he is a little better than what I had earlier thought

Nah, he'll just wait for a bad game to bump this and proclaim he was right all along.

 

[Chaka]

I pose the same question to you...please list for me your list of great RB's that couldn't be relied on in short yardage situations...or to run the clock late in games?

Barry Sanders.

Maybe we watched different games, because I don't recall Sanders on the sidelines too many times when it was time to put a game away or kill clock in the end...or score.

He was that guy played for the Detroit Lions.

Yeah, the same guy who could have had the leagues rushing record if he wanted it. I don't recall seeing him on the pine too often with the game on the line, when the team was trying to drive and pick up a first to extend a potential game winning drive or run clock to seal a game. Guys keep bringing up goal-line opportunities and I never even mentioned those. I mentioned times at the end of games when you need your RB to get you yards, and he is on the bench instead for whatever reason.

You are living a life of revisionist history, as well as modifying your responses to fit your argument rather than the facts. Barry was hit for a loss or no gain on a higher percentage of his carries than any running back in league history. He was the best pure runner to ever play the game but he could not be counted on to get the tough yards to grind out the clock at the end of games. It is not an insult to Barry, it is a simple fact. He may have been in the lineup in those situations but you can blame that on poor coaching decisions and a lack of other options.Unlike Wayne Fontes, Sean Payton is choosing to coach to his players strengths and exploring other options. Like I said, if those options fail we will see Reggie getting those carries by the end of the season.

 

[Chaka]

As far as real football goes, am I the only one that noticed when his team needed a yard at the end of the game (to prolong a drive)...he wasn't in there....similar to his college days. Bush is money this year in fantasy...but you honestly don't want your #2 pick to be able to get you a yard to prolong or seal a game? I recall another poster mentioning earlier how the ability to gain short yardage or run the clock out matters....

He's simply not that role on a team. So what? Honestly, he's not LT2 or Priest or other all around RBs, but as long as he scores TDs someway, somehow, he'll be a huge factor in helping his team win games. If he was able to do the goal line stuff as well, we'd be talking about a top 5 back, not a guy that I drafted in the 3rd round.

That's the point. I think if you spend the #2 pick on a dude, then you want him to be that guy. Again, I'm talking real football and not FF. I think he is having a great year either way.

You are trying so hard to justify simply not liking Bush.He had one huge negative play in this game but there is no way they are even close at the end without the guy.

Bush and Brees drive that offense.

Sure...if you say so. So you don't agree that a coaching staff would prefer to have a back that they could rely on in short yardage situations when they spend a #2 pick? I agree that Brees and Bush drive the offense, and Bush is having a productive year. But I don't think you want your main guy on the bench when it's time to seal the game...similar to the Rose Bowl vs UT.

Kingmalaki, you're reaching hard here. He was drafted for a role and he's doing it very well at this point. Since when does being a high draft pick mean he has to do everything? LT doesn't play defense or kickoff coverage...Sure, Bush isn't the best short yardage back. But how many good short yardage backs can do what Bush can in the role that Bush has? Zero.

New Orleans knew that Bush wasn't a great short yardage back when they drafted him #2, yet they still saw fit to draft him #2. There are also tons of RBs that get drafted in the top 5 and can't catch a pass if their life depended on it. Same difference.

I actually think he was drafted to be an every down traditional back or they wouldn't have spent that high a pick on him. Now it would seem that they have put him in the role that is better suited to his skills. We talked about it last year in the MJD/Bush debate. The only way that Bush is going to have a long, and successful career is if they avoid using him up the gut. Keep him to the outside, lots of dump passes, and line him up in the slot like the Rams did with Faulk. That being said, having a 4.1 YPC in one game does not make him a great RB.

For the record I am not calling Reggie a great running back, yet. But I recognize that he has the potential to be recognized as a great one.

 

[Chachi]

As far as real football goes, am I the only one that noticed when his team needed a yard at the end of the game (to prolong a drive)...he wasn't in there....similar to his college days. Bush is money this year in fantasy...but you honestly don't want your #2 pick to be able to get you a yard to prolong or seal a game? I recall another poster mentioning earlier how the ability to gain short yardage or run the clock out matters....

He's simply not that role on a team. So what? Honestly, he's not LT2 or Priest or other all around RBs, but as long as he scores TDs someway, somehow, he'll be a huge factor in helping his team win games. If he was able to do the goal line stuff as well, we'd be talking about a top 5 back, not a guy that I drafted in the 3rd round.

That's the point. I think if you spend the #2 pick on a dude, then you want him to be that guy. Again, I'm talking real football and not FF. I think he is having a great year either way.

You are trying so hard to justify simply not liking Bush.He had one huge negative play in this game but there is no way they are even close at the end without the guy.

Bush and Brees drive that offense.

Sure...if you say so. So you don't agree that a coaching staff would prefer to have a back that they could rely on in short yardage situations when they spend a #2 pick? I agree that Brees and Bush drive the offense, and Bush is having a productive year. But I don't think you want your main guy on the bench when it's time to seal the game...similar to the Rose Bowl vs UT.

Kingmalaki, you're reaching hard here. He was drafted for a role and he's doing it very well at this point. Since when does being a high draft pick mean he has to do everything? LT doesn't play defense or kickoff coverage...Sure, Bush isn't the best short yardage back. But how many good short yardage backs can do what Bush can in the role that Bush has? Zero.

New Orleans knew that Bush wasn't a great short yardage back when they drafted him #2, yet they still saw fit to draft him #2. There are also tons of RBs that get drafted in the top 5 and can't catch a pass if their life depended on it. Same difference.

I actually think he was drafted to be an every down traditional back or they wouldn't have spent that high a pick on him. Now it would seem that they have put him in the role that is better suited to his skills. We talked about it last year in the MJD/Bush debate. The only way that Bush is going to have a long, and successful career is if they avoid using him up the gut. Keep him to the outside, lots of dump passes, and line him up in the slot like the Rams did with Faulk. That being said, having a 4.1 YPC in one game does not make him a great RB.

Who cares what YOU think they drafted him to be. Just admit you are wrong and this is his breakout year and stop with the foot in mouth disease. I'm giving you an out, I suggest you walk through the door.

 

[kingmalaki]

You are living a life of revisionist history, as well as modifying your responses to fit your argument rather than the facts. Barry was hit for a loss or no gain on a higher percentage of his carries than any running back in league history. He was the best pure runner to ever play the game but he could not be counted on to get the tough yards to grind out the clock at the end of games.

And yet he still could have had the rushing record if he wanted it. Was he on the field or on the bench in those moments? And how have I modified my posts? My original post was:

As far as real football goes, am I the only one that noticed when his team needed a yard at the end of the game (to prolong a drive)...he wasn't in there....similar to his college days. Bush is money this year in fantasy...but you honestly don't want your #2 pick to be able to get you a yard to prolong or seal a game? I recall another poster mentioning earlier how the ability to gain short yardage or run the clock out matters....

I'll be waiting on you to enlighten me on what I've modified....

 

[Jason Wood]

I understand the trouble some are having with his low YPC and poor between-the-tackles vision in the context of whether Bush is really a good NFL running back. But again, in fantasy, the only reason that would be a concern is if you think his struggles would get him to lose playing time. There's ZERO evidence that Bush is in danger of losing playing time, so why sweat it?