It wasn’t long ago when people debated whether Chris Johnson or Adrian Peterson was the best running back in football. That was after 2009 when Johnson rushed for over 2,000 yards and scored 16 touchdowns. Johnson had somewhat of a down season last year (compared to ’09), but he still managed to gain over 100 yards per game from scrimmage. This year, however, has been a different story for the Titans Pro Bowler.
Johnson has struggled all season, gaining fewer than 45 yards per game while averaging just 2.9 yards per carry. He has scored just one touchdown in six games and failed to top 55 rushing yards in five games. He got frustrated with fans during his holdout from training camp, and they responded by booing him during his slow start. Things are not going well for Johnson, but luckily he has Adrian Peterson to support him.
Two Titans beat writers reported Wednesday that Peterson called Johnson to “boost his confidence” and tell him to “keep his head up.”
It’s nice to receive the encouragement, especially considering how frustrated Johnson has become. This also confirms what I said in 2010 when people were suggesting that Johnson was better. Adrian Peterson was and still is the best running back in football. You can’t have one great season and say you’re the best in the game. Peterson has been balling since his rookie season in 2007. He’s never had a down season. He fixed his fumbling problem, started catching passes out of the backfield, and he has consistently been one of the best backs in football the last five years. Even with poor quarterback play, he’s still been great. Johnson has dropped off. The debate is officially over.
