Introduction to Eric Dickerson
When the NFL discusses all-time great running backs, one name consistently comes to the forefront: Eric Dickerson. With a combination of speed, power, and agility, Dickerson revolutionized the position in the 1980s, leaving a lasting legacy in professional football. Among his many accolades, his rushing record stands out as one of the most impressive feats in NFL history.
The Rushing Record
Eric Dickerson set the single-season rushing record in 1984 when he rushed for an astonishing 2,105 yards while playing for the Los Angeles Rams. This record has remained intact, making it a subject of debate among football enthusiasts about whether it will ever be broken.
How Many Games Did It Take?
To achieve his record-setting rushing yards, Eric Dickerson played in just 14 games during the 1984 NFL season. This makes his achievement even more remarkable, considering the fewer number of games compared to the 16-game seasons that followed and the current 17-game format. Below is a breakdown of Dickerson’s performance that year:
- Total Rushing Yards: 2,105 yards
- Games Played: 14 games
- Average Yards per Game: Approximately 150.4 yards
- Rushing Touchdowns: 14
Comparison with Other NFL Legends
To fully appreciate Dickerson’s achievement, it is essential to compare it to other great running backs. Here are some notable comparisons:
- Barry Sanders: Rushed for 2,053 yards in 1997 in 16 games.
- Adrian Peterson: Rushed for 2,097 yards in 2012 in 16 games.
- Derrick Henry: Rushed for 2,027 yards in 2020 in 16 games.
Despite their remarkable performances, each of these players played more games than Dickerson, which highlights the uniqueness of his record. Dickerson averaged around 150.4 yards per game, a number that remains unparalleled.
The Impact of Dickerson’s Record
Eric Dickerson’s single-season rushing record had a profound impact on the NFL and continues to be a benchmark for running backs. Each player who has come after him is often compared to his record.
For instance, when Adrian Peterson approached the mark in 2012, football fans were spellbound, as media coverage intensified and a sense of anticipation filled the air. Yet, even he could not surpass Dickerson’s total. The mystique surrounding Dickerson’s record has fueled debates among fans, analysts, and players alike, making it a significant talking point in the history of the sport.
Changing NFL Landscape
Over the years, the NFL has evolved, with teams increasingly relying on a committee of running backs rather than one featured back. As of the current season, this has led to a decline in the number of workhorse backs who carry the ball significantly every game. However, this shift has not diminished the glory of Dickerson’s record.
Conclusion
Eric Dickerson’s remarkable achievement of 2,105 rushing yards in just 14 games remains one of the most formidable records in sports history. The combination of talent, dedication, and performance in a shorter season has immortalized him in NFL lore. As fans look to the future, one can’t help but wonder if today’s players will ever be able to approach, let alone surpass, this legendary feat.
