A position of instability in recent years, the Falcons backfield has shown a new talent and versatility this season with Tevin Coleman, Devonta Freeman and Terron Ward.
Ward said he sees the stock of skills at running back as a privilege for the Falcons (4-0).
“I think the more, the merrier,” said Ward, a rookie from Oregon State. “The more threats you have, the more fresh legs you have, the more the defense has to look out for different (ball-carriers).”
Kyle Shanahan said the trio brings him some ease of mind as an offensive coordinator.
“When you have three guys who are all confident in the run and pass game, it’s a good situation for myself to not have to keep looking up at who’s in,” Shanahan said. “I think we have three good backs and I think Ward showed last week that he can play hard.”
Ward scored the first touchdown of his career Sunday against Houston and finished with a game-high 72 yards on 19 carries and one reception for 18 yards.
As the Falcons prepare to play the Redskins on Sunday, Ward said above all else, he’s focused on preparation.
“I think that’s all this game is about: being prepared and being able to make plays when the opportunity comes,” he said. “We just have to be prepared to run, play fast, think on your feet and make plays.”
Running backs coach Bobby Turner said the three backs are competing every day for the starting position.
“I want all three of them tight, but when we call whoever’s going out on the field, you’re going to give us everything you have,” Turner said. “The bottom line is we’re undefeated at this time and they’re all three contributing. I’m happy about that, but by no means am I in a comfort zone and I definitely don’t want them in a comfort zone. We’re striving to improve every day.”
Ward, who went undrafted, signed with the Falcons in May. Turner said the Falcons wanted Ward because he showed promise as a “complete” running back and now has fluent knowledge of offensive system.
“He’s very knowledgeable and he understands what we’re trying to do and what we want to do,” Turner said. “When he’s called upon, he does his job.”
Coach Dan Quinn said versatility in personnel at running back was the Falcons’ plan from the beginning.
“I think that’s the whole plan all along — having (running backs) who we really trust,” Quinn said. “We think all three of our halfbacks are really tough. We trust them a lot and all will play. We’re excited to see them all do their thing.”
Coleman, the rookie from Indiana who started the season opener, only returned to practice Wednesday after missing two weeks due a fractured rib sustained against the Giants. In his absence, Freeman was given his first two career starts and excelled, recording six rushing touchdowns, 209 rushing yards and 133 receiving yards.
Quinn said Freeman, who was coming off a hamstring injury in training camp, may have had a softer start in the first few games, but Quinn said he knew Freeman’s competitiveness would kick in as the season progressed.
“He was one of the people who absolutely went for it in the offseason as hard as he possible could,” Quinn said. “One of the things that I love about his game (is) that he just doesn’t back off.”
Quinn said Washington (2-2) poses a real challenge. The Redskins, bolstered by their defensive line nicknamed Capital Punishment, have allowed just 312 rushing yards — 78 per game — the second-lowest total in the NFL through four games.
About the Author
