2008 AFC West Running Back Rankings

If you want to win the AFC West Title, there are two things that must occur: have a strong running game and a defense that can stop the run. Teams in the AFC West have to face L.T., Larry Johnson and Fargas/ Darren McFadden twice a year. Don't forget that the Broncos can pick a fan from the nosebleed section of their stadium and still have well over 1,200 yards rushing in a season. Without a vicious ground game teams in this division can forget about a first place finish.

1. San Diego Chargers LaDainian Tomlinson

Last season in the playoffs L.T's toughness was questioned. I do feel he was hurt, but the QB Philip Rivers was operating on one leg and managed to complete 60% of his passes, throw for 767 yards with four T.D's. Again I don't know how bad L.T's injury was, but I do know that Philip Rivers could have chosen not to play. On the other hand, the majority of people would say that L.T. is the most complete RB in the NFL hands down. In 2007 Tomlinson ran for 1,474 yards, finished with 60 catches and finished with 18 TD's. L.T. has proven that he will put up regular season numbers, but he must show that his talents can and will translate to post season production.

2. Kansas City Chiefs Larry Johnson

Larry Johnson might be the most physical player at his position in the NFL. In 2005 Johnson rushed 336 times and in 2007 he had 416 rushing attempts. There is concern that Johnson could be wearing down. The Chiefs need to do a better job of keeping Johnson fresh. Head coach Herman Edwards is allergic to watching his QB throw the ball. As a result, Kansas City might want to give RB Kolby Smith 10-15 carries a game. In five seasons in the NFL Johnson has 50 TD's. If Kansas City can find a back to split some of the carries with Larry then it increases the chances of Johnson being effective for the three to four seasons.

3. Oakland Raiders Justin Fargas, Darren McFadden and Michael Bush