A sincere question: why have running backs gradually become expendable in real life?
The root cause lies in the league drastically changing game rules for the sake of ratings, providing quarterbacks with as much protection as possible. This inevitably leads coaching staff to spend more time on passing strategies, squeezing the space available for running backs to shine.
As rushing tactics become increasingly simplistic, the chances of running backs using sheer physicality to break through grow higher, making ground attacks cruder and more straightforward.
Meanwhile, defensive groups are shackled when facing quarterbacks—slight mishaps invite yellow flags and yard losses. When confronting wide receivers and tight ends, the strict rules against rough defense leave defenders hesitant, while running backs remain the exception.
Under league rules, running backs are discarded like unwanted stepchildren, where defensive players' tackles and hits can fully unleash their power.
