Running backs are ruling the NFL, at least through the first two weeks. The position is back in prominence after the league announced Wednesday afternoon that James Cook and Alvin Kamara are the respective AFC and NFC Offensive Players of the Week.
Cook scored three touchdowns to help Buffalo crush Miami last Thursday night, 31-10. He also posted 95 scrimmage yards, including 78 on the ground.
“Seems like each week he’s getting more comfortable and confident,” said quarterback Josh Allen after Thursday’s win, courtesy of BuffaloBills.com. “He’s been begging for some goal-line runs, and we gave it to him. He got his touchdown down there, the long one. He found a way on that, the first touchdown in the first quarter there. So can’t be more happier for him and more proud of him. And you know, he just continues to make plays for us.”
Kamara, meanwhile, continued to haunt Cowboys defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer. The centerpiece of Klint Kubiak’s offensive success, Kamara scored four touchdowns and racked up 180 yards from scrimmage in the Saints’ 44-19 win at Dallas. It was his best day since tying an NFL record with six rushing touchdowns on Christmas Day against Zimmer’s Vikings, which also earned Kamara the NFC’s weekly award.
On the ground, Kamara recorded 115 yards and three touchdowns on 20 carries. He also took a short Derek Carr pass and converted it into a 57-yard touchdown reception.