Portis’ team first attitude is refreshing

By Connor Byrne  |   Monday, May 22, 2006  |  Comments( 8 )

Washington Redskins
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When people think of running back Clinton Portis, rarely do they imagine someone willing to take less carries in order to win more games. However, the star back for the Washington Redskins has indeed made it apparent that he's eager to handle the ball less, if it means the team can continue to move the ball and accumulate victories.

The 24-year-old Portis, who leaves opposing defenses begging for less each week, may be ready to grant those wishes. However, according to him, the numbers will continue to be the same. The University of Miami product, who rushed for 1,516 yards last season, is reportedly fine with taking 10-15 handoffs per game, since the Redskins' air attack has an opportunity to dominate opposing secondaries.

With the additions of receivers Antwaan Randle El and Brandon Lloyd this offseason, Washington finds themselves with a stable of wideouts that already included Santana Moss before that. Throw in underrated tight end Chris Cooley, and the 'Skins could be looking at big things offensively. As long as new, yet brilliant offensive coordinator Al Saunders can get the best out of veteran quarterback Mark Brunell, Washington will be competing for a crack at head coach Joe Gibbs' fourth Super Bowl victory.

In a league full of "me" players, it's nice to see Portis, who many have dismissed as little more than another Miami "hotshot," decline his production in favor of the team. But if you ask Portis, he won't be losing yardage; he'll be maintaining it, since he believes he'll be able to exploit opposing defenses with draw plays. Last year Portis caught 30 passes, so he's a decent dual threat from the backfield, too. Either way, his production probably won't stray too far from his norm, which has been at least 1,315 rushing yards in each season of his four-year career.

Saunders probably won't opt to hand it off much less to Portis next season, but it's an interesting thought. It seems difficult to believe the 35-year-old Brunell is capable of carrying an offense every week, but if he can duplicate what he did last season, it should mean big things for Washington.

For Portis--the three-time 1,500+ yard rusher--you can count on one thing, he'll continue to dress in his crazy costumes next season. Whether or not he can approach 1,500 yards again remains to be seen, but don't bet against it. With his talent, he might just compete for a rushing title, if he gets his usual amount of carries each week.

If you ask Portis, he could probably win a rushing title with even less carries. That's a novel and unlikely idea, but it's impossible not to love his optimism.

--Connor J. Byrne can be reached at cbyrne@realfootball365.com

Get more Clinton Portis insights at Realfootball365.com
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