Detroit Lions Midseason Grades: Running Back Report Card
By Dean Holden
Theo Riddick
Aug 22, 2013; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Lions running back Theo Riddick (41) is tackled by New England Patriots defense during 2nd half at Ford Field. Lions won 40-9. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports
Production
Riddick hasn’t gotten much time on the field, but he has seen considerably more of it than Mikel Leshoure. I’m not sure whether that says more about Riddick or Leshoure, but they’ve both been mostly irrelevant in the offense thus far. The difference between them is that Riddick is actually supposed to be a minimal part of the offense right now.
Grade: D
Impact
Riddick had a reasonably big role in Week 3 against Washington (when Reggie Bush was out), but has otherwise been a non-factor. At least he can play special teams.
Grade: D-
Vs. Expectations
Riddick isn’t supposed to be doing much right now other than learning the offense and keeping himself available. The fact that he has (apparently) supplanted Leshoure on the depth chart is already more than he was supposed to do.
Grade: B-
Overall
There isn’t much more to say about the Riddick at this point. His role may grow over time as Leshoure’s continues to fade, and it will be interesting to see how he responds if/when that happens, but for now, he’s pure depth.
Grade: D+