At this point in the season some running backs have rushed for over 1000 yards; however, most play 4 quarters. Even though 1000 yards rushing looks good on paper, average yards per carry can often times be a more important statistic. For Tatum running backs BJ Allen and Brandon Woodard this is definitely the case. BJ Allen- 752 yards rushing on 63 carries- 11.9 a carry, 10 TDs Brandon Woodard- 611 yards rushing on 41 carries- 14.9 a carry, 9 TDs.

When you consider that Allen has really only played one full game due to injury, his statistics become more impressive. In his first full game as the feature back for Tatum, Allen rushed for 292 yards– 251 coming in 2nd half and all of this against Gilmer. Since breaking his hand in Week 4 he has only carried the ball 10 times but this has opened the door for Woodard. Woodard has also played only one full game, also against Gilmer. Woodard, also a vital part of Tatum’s defense, played both ways against Gilmer, limiting his carries on offense. Woodard finished defensively with 11 solo tackles, 3 assists, 1 pass deflection and 1 sack against Gilmer.

Michael Garland