Run dominance in playoffs shows why KC Chiefs should draft running back

The Titans’ victory over the Patriots brings home the discussion of valuation of the running game and the running back position and the difference between the two. This is very important for the KC Chiefs moving forward.

Ever since the conclusion of the Titans upset victory over the Patriots last weekend, the narrative – for the most part – has centered around Derrick Henry and the Titans running game plowing over the vaunted Patriots defense to victory.

While the impact of Derrick Henry in that game specifically, and the Titans season as a whole, likely can’t be overstated, the running game narrative as a whole is missing the point entirely.

Despite all the rushing yards, the Titans offense managed to score only 14 points. Despite the fact the Titans rushed for over 200 yards as a team, they still only mustered 14 points and managed to punt the ball to the Patriots up only one point and Brady ready to add yet another chapter of his playoff highlights reel.

Make no mistake, the Titans defense is the reason they’re playing this weekend, not the offense.

The inability of the Titans to do much of anything in the passing game (the team threw for less than 80 yards through four quarters) makes one wonder if the Patriots defensive game plan was to ensure they were not beat over the top on play action; Knowing that while rushing yards are hard earned, it would help keep the Patriots struggling offense in the game.

For all the hubbub and hullabaloo around the Titans rushing offense, Tom Brady and the Patriots had the ball with plenty of time to get into field goal range for a winning kick. It was the Titans defense that made the necessary stops.

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However, imagine where the Titans offense would be without Derrick Henry; A long reception helped set up his rushing touchdown and he personally accounted for over 200 yards of total offense. Without a really good, versatile running back like Henry, the Titans don’t see the playoffs and one wonders if the Patriots march on.

What does this have to do with the Kansas City Chiefs, you ask? Well, this offseason, the Chiefs are likely in need of a running back – Or are they?

As early mock drafts come out, many are linking the Chiefs to running backs, and doing so early. Multiple writers with  CBS Sports has linked the Chiefs to JK Dobbins. Jonah Tuls from the Draft Network has also linked the Chiefs to the Ohio State back.

Do I think the Chiefs will or should take a running back in the first round? No. They will have premium positions of need (say cornerback and wide receiver) and will be in a great position to address either spot. However, do I believe the Chiefs will add a running back in the 2020 draft, and somewhat early? I sure do.

The running back in today’s NFL has to be a swiss army knife of production. They have to be capable of catching the ball out of the backfield, being a pass catching threat while also having a basic ability to provide blocking ability in the passing game when not asked to be a target. Also, that little aspect of toting the ball up the field.

I highlighted some running backs the Chiefs could look at in the upcoming 2020 draft. While I don’t see J.K. Dobbins becoming a Chief during the draft weekend, I do believe a running back will find his name on the draft list. Who that is we’ll have to wait for draft weekend to find out.