Not that it’s time to anoint rookie running back James Starks the second coming, but the sixth-round pick looks like he might have a bright future with the Green Bay Packers.
Starks ran for 73 yards on 18 carries in the Packers’ victory over the San Francisco 49ers, Sunday. Meanwhile, starting halfback Brandon Jackson got only four carries and John Kuhn had only six.
Against the 49ers, the Packers played to each back’s strength, utilizing Jackson in the passing game (four receptions, 63 yards), Kuhn for short, power runs and Starks for pretty much everything else.
Starks, who hasn’t played since his junior year of college because of injuries, was only supposed to see 8-10 carries on Sunday, but he earned more as the game went on.
“I like his running style. Everybody is going to talk about how high he is, just because of his particular build. But he’s a talented young man and when he comes off the back end, you better watch out, it’s going to the end zone. He has that kind of ability,” coach Mike McCarthy said. “He falls forward and the bigger backs have that ability. And that’s the difference. That’s the difference between second-and-7 and second-and-4.”
McCarthy mentioned the fact that Starks falls forward twice during his post-game press conference, so the coaching staff obviously likes what he can do. What’s perhaps more telling about the rookie’s long-term potential is the fact both he and McCarthy noted that he was rusty.
Once the rust wears off and Starks gets coached up, the Packers may find they have a real steal on their hands.
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Let’s not forget that he averaged over 4 yards per carry against a great run defense in San Fancisco. I like the potential that this guy showed yesterday, however he missed a few cut back lanes. I’m sure it will only come with more reps, tape, and experience overall. I love how he ran over Willis and if he can recapture what he was in college, he will be an unbelievable back.
Now, let’s make our run for the Lombardi!!!
Go Pack Go!
“However he missed a few cut back lanes” as if no other RB’s miss them…ever.His first game and the nit picking starts as though he has been playing for years.Geez.Just be thankful MM had the balls to give him the start.
Our offense isn’t used to 2nd and 5, 2nd and 6. It hardly knew what to do with itself. We could be an extremely dangerous 2nd and 5 team if we could get a RB who can consistently give us that. Defenses on that down have to decide whether to keep two safeties back and potentially give up the 1st down or bring one up and open up the sidelines to our WRs.
I like how Starks drives through defenders without hesitation! Way to go!