Felton Provides Spark In Vikings Run Game

Dec 30, 2012; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings fullback Jerome Felton (42) against the Green Bay Packers at the Metrodome. The Vikings defeated the Packers 37-34. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports

Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson rushed for 140 yards and scored two touchdowns in week 4 against the Pittsburgh Steelers.  One of the major factors in Peterson’s success against the Steelers was the return of fullback Jerome Felton from a three game suspension.

Vikings head coach Leslie Frazier had some very positive things to say about the return of Jerome Felton:

"“It was great for Adrian. It gave our offense a boost. It definitely created a comfort level knowing that Jerome was out there. He didn’t have to talk through certain things. There is just a synergy between the two of them, and for our offensive line, it’s like having an extra blocker because of his success as a lead blocker. I think it definitely helped Adrian have a terrific day, and I think Jerome had a part to say in that.”"

Sep 9, 2012; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings fullback Jerome Felton (42) and tackle Matt Kalil (75) celebrate with running back Adrian Peterson (28) after he scores a touchdown against the Jacksonville Jaguars in the second quarter at the Metrodome. Vikings win 26-23. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports

According to the stats at ESPN, here are Adrian Peterson’s stats with and without Jerome Felton blocking for him last year:

• With Felton: 1,505 rushing yards (6.9 yards per carry) and 9 touchdowns
• Without Felton: 592 yards (4.6 yards per carry) and 4 touchdowns.

As you can see from the numbers, Adrian Peterson averages 2.3 more yards per carry with Jerome Felton leading the way for him.  That is a significant difference and shows how important Felton is to the Vikings run game.