The 2024 NFL season has ushered in a notable shift in offensive strategies, with the running game experiencing a crucial resurgence.
After years of pass-heavy offenses dominating the league, defenses appear to have adapted, making it increasingly challenging for quarterbacks to achieve impressive passing statistics.
Fox Sports NFL broadcaster Greg Olsen has provided insightful commentary on this trend.
On the NFL on FOX Podcast, Olsen elaborated on this phenomenon, stating, “Teams are realizing right now, ‘Yes, my run numbers are great but I’m so much better at defending the pass.’”
“Because at the end of the day, we are not trying to keep yards down, we are trying to keep yards that lead to points. And what we know about the NFL, that is through the air.”
“As passing yards come down, so does scoring.”@gregolsen88 says the run game is making a “comeback” because defenses are allowing it more ✍️
🎙️: https://t.co/wG42iYtveW pic.twitter.com/R9dywtQgc9
— NFL on FOX Podcast (@NFLonFOXPod) September 19, 2024
And the stats are telling: teams are averaging a mere 187.6 passing yards per game, the lowest figure since 1992.
With safeties playing deep and long passing plays becoming scarce, even elite quarterbacks such as Aaron Rodgers, Kirk Cousins, and Deshaun Watson have struggled to find their rhythm.
Olsen’s analysis suggests that teams are not necessarily favoring the run game due to its superiority, but rather because defenses have become more adept at preventing long passes.
This shift in defensive strategy has led offenses to focus on reducing yards gained and forcing field goals.
More so, this trend is evidenced by the increased workload of star running backs like Derrick Henry.
Even lesser-known players such as J.K. Dobbins of the Chargers have risen to prominence, leading the league in rushing yards after just two weeks of play.
