If you’re not a bandwagon Saquon Barkley fan, you’ve probably suffered through the past five years of lackluster New York Giants football. You also likely remember the old earth, wind and fire running back trio consisting of Brandon Jacobs, Ahmad Bradshaw, and Derrick Ward.
Jacobs represented the earth, as he pummeled safeties and linebackers into the dirt, leaving them a part of the great earth. I’m pretty sure he also caused several man-made earthquakes due to his thumping and stomping. His strength was reminiscent of the Refrigerator Perry… Not exactly, but you get the point.
Derrick Ward was the wind, as he breezed past defenders in the second level. He was a solid compliment to Jacobs who represented fresh legs when on the field.
Bradshaw was the fire, as he provided that extra burst of energy and excitement on the offense. His jump cuts in space cause ankles to be smashed all over the field. He probably has more broken ankles than broken records after his stellar career with the Giants. If Big Blue needed a burst of energy and power, Bradshaw was the guy to turn to.
The New York Giants current running-back tro:
The Giants have three new running backs on the team, with one going into their second-season after being drafted in 2017.
Wayne Gallman represents the wind, as he has a thin frame and can fly by defenders with his speed. He showed a keen sense of agility and movement in his rookie season, proving to be a capable back with solid potential. He will play a change of pace role with a vertical mentality, trying to pick his holes and explode through them.
Jonathan Stewart is the earth. His ability to block and grind out yards on short-yardage plays is essential. He will be the guy to push the line and lower his shoulder into incoming linebackers. He’s no Brandon Jacobs, but his role will be essential to moving the chains on third and short.
Saquon Barkley is the fire. His immense potential and ability to run, catch and block makes him a threat in all facets of the game. He can torch any defender (pun intended) at any moment. While he contains the power to be a short-yardage back and the speed to be an every down back, it’s fair to say he can effectively be earth, wind and fire at the same time.