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Detroit Lions Running Backs: Postseason Grades

By Tony Fischer

Sep 11, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Detroit Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford (9) celebrates with running back Ameer Abdullah (21) after he scores a touchdown in the second half against the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium. The Lions won 39-35. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 11, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Detroit Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford (9) celebrates with running back Ameer Abdullah (21) after he scores a touchdown in the second half against the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium. The Lions won 39-35. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports /
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Theo Riddick – RB, 4th Year – Notre Dame

Grade- B-

After the injury to Ameer Abdullah, the Detroit Lions called upon Theo Riddick to carry the load for the offense.  He held his own in the Lions hybrid rushing scheme averaging 3.9 yards per carry.

Lions
Nov 24, 2016; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Lions running back Theo Riddick (25) runs the ball during the first quarter of a NFL game on Thanksgiving against the Minnesota Vikings at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports /

Riddick really excelled at catching the ball out of the back-field.  Riddick caught 53 passes for 371 yards and 5 touchdowns while building a reputation as one of the première pass catching running backs in the NFL. He is also considered the 11th best running back in the league according to Pro Football Focus despite missing much of the season with injury.

But Riddick’s break-out season came to an end early when the Lions placed him on injured reserve  on the eve of the playoff’s after missing 3 games with an injury to his wrist. Riddick had also been limited in practice time and effectiveness in the weeks prior cause of a nagging ankle injury.

Despite being banged up this season, Theo Riddick was still the Lions most consistent and dependable running back.  Assuming he comes back in 2017 at full strength he should be able to help the Lions both out of the backfield and split wide.

Still Ahead: Zach Zenner, Dwayne Washington, Summary and Outlook

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