Why running backs are overrated.  The stadium scene. Sept. 1
2004 5:00 PM  Empty Backfield  Why running backs are overrated.
It's guys like you, Ricky, who are overrated It's guys like you,
Ricky, who are overrated  When Ricky Williams retired last
month, it was thought to be a massive blow to the Miami
Dolphins. After all, in his two years with the team, Williams
ran for 3,225 yards and carried the ball more times than an NFL
running back ever had in a two-year period. Even so, Miami
should consider itself lucky to be rid of him. If the Dolphins
can get over the emotional hurdle of losing their workhorse,
they'll soon figure out that he wasn't as important as they
thought. That's because the star running back is the most
overrated player in football.  Everywhere you look, the running
back is exalted. Coaches and announcers talk about the
importance of giving the ball to a star runner early and late in
the game. Fantasy football, typically structured to make running
backs far and away the most important play