Bilal Powell was a fourth round pick back in the 2011 draft, but his breakout year was not until this year. He always has been a very reliable running back, who is very careful with the football. He has only five fumbles, one of which was lost. Powell is a very explosive back. He can run over defensive backs or go around them just as easily. Not only is he explosive, but he runs with heart and grit. He will not go down without getting that extra yard that he needs for the first down. That type of grit and determination is what the New York Jets need in order to become a force in the league again.
Bilal Powell Deserves More Respect
Looking at Powell’s Stats Compared to Matt Forte
This season, Powell finished with 722 yards on 131 attempts and three touchdowns. Now, when you compare this to Matt Forte‘s numbers, that really puts Powell’s running into perspective. Forte finished with 813 yards on 218 attempts and seven touchdowns. Another thing that really set Powell apart is the threat he is as a receiving back. He has 58 receptions for 388 yards with two receiving touchdowns. Those numbers prove that Powell can be a threat not only on the ground but in the air, which could be a huge safety net for whoever is under center taking the snaps.
Powell or Forte as the Starter?
When it comes down to it, Forte clearly has experience having been in the league since 2008. He was the staple of the Chicago Bears offense since he came into the league, and is beloved by the organization for all he has done for them. He will always be considered one of the all-time great players for that franchise. Bringing that veteran knowledge over to the Jets at the beginning of this season was a great move as it brought that locker room presence they needed.
Powell does not have the experience that Forte does, nor does he have the same accolades. But Powell has heart, and you can see that whenever he has the football in his hands. He plays like he wants to be there, like he needs to be there. That is something that can not be coached or taught, but it’s something he harnesses to make himself a better player. Forte is still a formidable running back, but he is also getting older. Powell is about four years younger and was not the workhorse that Forte was, so he has a lot more tread on his legs. Going forward, the Jets should really allow Powell more touches in the running game, and give him more opportunity to prove himself as the number one back for the team. Forte will provide a solid running back that could be used in rotation with Powell, but should not be the primary back anymore.
Hopefully, Bilal Powell is the running back the Jets need.
