5 things Gary Kubiak will do differently than Kevin Stefanski
By Dustin Baker
The starting running back will be moderately successful in a Kubiak offense
The key here is that, to some degree, that running back will be successful no matter who it is.
Unsurprisingly, that astute offensive line performance by Gary Kubiak-led teams translates to tailback success. Who’da thunk it?
Once upon a time in the spring of 1995, Terrell Davis was not a big deal. Of course, he made an immediate impact in 1995, but he was the 18th running back selected in that year’s NFL Draft. Kubiak recognized Davis’ mettle, and like that, the sixth-rounder out of Georgia began a Hall of Fame journey.
The list goes on. Among others, several tailbacks have had 1,000-plus yard from scrimmage seasons in a Kubiak offense including Olandis Gary, Mike Anderson, Reuben Droughns, Tatum Bell, Steve Slaton, Ben Tate, and Justin Forsett. And, this does not even include the stars like Davis, Clinton Portis, and Arian Foster, who are obvious.
Make no mistake, whether it’s Dalvin Cook, Alexander Mattison, Mike Boone, or Ameer Abdullah–any or all of these men would slide into a Kubiak offense like a glove. Once one can accept or realize that, the determination must be made as to which of the aforementioned four tailbacks would be the most productive. That’s your running back debate.
As for a Kevin Stefanski comparison, it is merely hypothetical or hopeful because of his limited experience. Perhaps Stefanski could build an offense around someone like Boone. But Kubiak has already proven he can mold tailback clay. It’s more of a sure thing with Kubiak.