Adrian Peterson takes the lead in NFL rushing yards
By Adam Carlson
Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson has re-claimed the lead in the NFL’s rushing race, but faces some tough challenges in the next several weeks.
Prior to the week 5 bye for the Minnesota Vikings, running back Adrian Peterson was leading the NFL in rushing yards. That week off allowed other running backs to move ahead of him in the rankings, but he has reclaimed the lead following Sunday’s game against the St. Louis Rams.
The former NFL MVP rushed for 125 yards in the Vikings week 9 game against the Rams, who rank #13 in the NFL in fewest rushing yards per game allowed. Things are looking difficult for Peterson when looking at the upcoming schedule, as four of Minnesota’s next five games are against top 10 rush defenses.
For now though, Adrian Peterson is the king of the hill when it comes to picking up yards on the ground. Here are the current top 5 rushers for the 2015 NFL season through week 9:
Nov 8, 2015; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson (28) runs for a touchdown during the first quarter against the St. Louis Rams at TCF Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports
Adrian Peterson, Vikings (758)
Much of the discussion around Sunday’s Minnesota Vikings game against the St. Louis Rams focused on the current best running back in the NFL, Adrian Peterson, taking on the possible future best ball carrier, Todd Gurley. Both found the end zone on Sunday, but Peterson gained more yards on the ground than Gurley, 125 to 89.
In a recent article on the ESPN website, Peterson reminded people that he’s still the best in the game. However, he really liked what he saw from Toddy Gurley on Sunday.
"“I don’t plan on passing the torch any time soon,” Peterson said. “He came out and had a good game. I was able to sit back and watch him. He’s a very explosive and strong back. I would just like to encourage him to keep pushing. He’s going to come out of his game against our defense as a better player.”"
You can catch Adrian Peterson when the Minnesota Vikings take on the Oakland Raiders on November 15, 2015. Check your local listings for time and availability.