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As part of our season wrap-up series, we are going to examine how each player on the roster performed in 2014. Next, let's take a look at the Detroit Lions' running backs. (Note: Stats are from regular-season games only.)
Joique Bell - 15 games (6 starts) | 223 carries, 860 yards, 7 TD | 34 catches, 322 yards, 1 TD | 1 lost fumble
Bell emerged as the Lions' main running back in 2014, and he had a career year from a carries and yards standpoint. His yards per carry average (3.9) was actually the same as last season despite the offensive line regressing quite a bit, indicating that he improved even if the blocking in front of him didn't. In any case, Bell really came on strong toward the end of the season, and hopefully that's a sign of things to come in 2015.
Reggie Bush - 11 games (9 starts) | 76 carries, 297 yards, 2 TD | 40 catches, 253 yards
We got a few glimpses of his explosiveness here or there, but Bush was hampered by injuries for much of the season. In addition, there was too much dancing on runs, and his contributions in the passing game were down quite a bit from 2013. This step back from a production standpoint has made him a potential cap casualty this offseason. If he remains on the team, the hope is that Bush will regain his 2013 form and actually stay healthy for a change.
Theo Riddick - 14 games (2 starts) | 20 carries, 51 yards | 34 catches, 316 yards, 4 TD
Riddick didn't do a whole lot in the running game, but he was outstanding as a receiver. Especially late in games, Riddick seemed to make a lot of great catches and clutch plays. He was really deserving of more playing time in 2014, and hopefully his role will continue to grow in 2015, especially as a target in the passing game.
George Winn - 12 games (0 starts) | 19 carries, 73 yards
Winn's contributions were mainly limited to special teams in 2014. He did have a couple of games where he saw a decent amount of playing time at running back, but that was only because injuries forced him into action.
Previously: Quarterback