NFL 2017: Running the Ball
NFL 2017: Running the Ball

A tough, reliable running game allows an offense to command a game's pace. In the majority of contests, it can also control the game's result.

In 2016, NFL teams with a 100-yard rusher posted a 68-27-1 record for a .714 winning percentage. That rated higher than clubs with a 100-yard receiver (94-73-2, .562) or a 300-yard passer (56-60-2, .483).

Pittsburgh running back Le'veon Bell ranked fifth in the NFL with 1,268 rushing yards last season, despite playing only 12 games. The Steelers were 6-0 in games in which Bell rushed for at least 100 yards.

"Le'Veon's one of the greatest players on our team," says Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger. "He's one of the best running backs in the world. It's an honor to play with him."

Over the past five years, teams have compiled a 359-141-6 record (.715) when a player has eclipsed the 100-yard rushing mark. By comparison, clubs with a 100-yard receiver have a .558 winning percentage (509-403-4), while offenses with a 300-yard passer have won 51.5 percent of their games (316-298-3).

The winning percentage of teams with a 100-yard rusher, 100-yard receiver or 300-yard passer over the past five seasons:

 

100-Yard Rushers 100-Yard Receivers 300-Yard Passers
(Source: NFL)
SeasonW-L-TPctSeasonW-L-TPctSeasonW-L-TPct
201283-35-1.702201292-78-1.541201261-65.484
201360-33-2.642201398-82.544201360-58.508
201475-23-2.7602014105-74-1.586201470-52-1.573
201573-23.7602015120-96.556201569-63.522
201668-27-1.714201694-73-2.562201656-60-2.483
Total359-141-6.715Total509-403-4.558Total316-298-3.515

NFL Football: "NFL 2017: Running the Ball"