Eagles Jordan Howard Evolving into Lead Running Back
Jordan Howard and Miles Sanders have been a nice complement to each other so far in the Eagles’ offense.
Right now, though it appears as if Howard has become the team’s lead back.
“It’s a good mix with those two guys,” said head coach Doug Pederson on Monday. “You’re seeing Miles in the passing game being a little more explosive with some of the down the field throws with him.
“And with Jordan, he’s kind of the guy that you kind of settle down in the run game and give him those touches. He’s a between the tackles guy, he’s big and powerful, has good vision.
"I really think Miles is learning from Jordan running the ball, which is a positive. I think as we go, Jordan has been kind of the lead back the last couple of games for sure, but Miles is learning and coming and really happy with both of them.”
Howard leads the team in touchdowns with five, four of which have come on the ground.
His five offensive scores in the last three games make him the first Eagles running back with five-plus offensive touchdowns in a three-game span since LeSean McCoy did it from Dec. 1, 2011 through Dec. 18, 2011 when McCoy also had five.
Howard has 248 yards rushing on 53 carries (4.7 yards per carry) while adding six catches for 47 yards (7.8 per catch).
“I’m a pretty patient player, but when I got here (running backs/assistant head coach) Duce (Staley) had to slow me down a little bit and I felt like it’s been helping me out so I can see holes and letting stuff develop longer, so definitely taking my time with stuff,” said Howard after the Eagles beat the Jets 31-6 on Sunday.
“Duce always talks about being patient and not going to fast and make (the defense) commit before you commit and taking our time so the linemen can get to the defenders.”
Howard was asked about how is role has developed over the course of his first season with the Eagles.
“I have to be prepared for whatever role it’s going to be,” said Howard. “The offense is going to change every week so you have to be ready for the moment when your number’s called.”
Sanders has 54 carries for 193 yards (3.6 yards per carry) with 10 catches for 133 yards (13.3 yards per catch).
“I think moving forward, it’s kind of going that way (with Howard having the higher percentage of carries), but I can’t sit here and tell you that if Miles has a hot hand one day that he gets more touches,” said Pederson, “but right now that’s kind of the trend.”
