clock menu more-arrow no yes mobile

Filed under:

More JJ vs. MB3

The Julius Jones/Marion Barber debate is the subject of this article. The problem is the author starts with a statistical supposition.

One might assume that Julius Jones will definitely be the Dallas Cowboys featured running back this season. The common perception is that Jones is a better runner than Marion Barber, his main competition. But a look at the numbers doesn't substantiate that premise. In 2005, both players averaged 3.9 yards a carry while Jones averaged 6.2 yards per reception compared to Barber's 6.4. More importantly, since Barber is the better blocker and the Cowboys offensive line is anything but a sure thing, it is certainly not a foregone conclusion that Jones will be the main man.

Comparisons of statistics over a one-year period is often misleading, but even conceding that last year they were interchangeable, there's not much debate that Julius Jones is the better pure runner. Anytime Julius touches the ball he has the potential to go all the way. He's a more elusive back who has excellent open-field moves that can lead to big runs.

On the other hand, MB3 is probably the more well-rounded back. He does all the other things well like block and pass catch, plus he is a better between-the-tackles runner when you need a tough yard or two.

So the question is will we have RB-by-committee this year? I would say no, under one condition, Julius stays healthy. If JJ can do that, then he should be the featured back for the running offense, he brings a dimension Barber doesn't possess. But I wouldn't hesitate to use Barber on 3rd downs, short yardage situations including goal-line and for pass-protection.

Overall, it's a great problem to have.

Sign up for the newsletter Sign up for the Blogging The Boys Daily Roundup newsletter!

A daily roundup of all your Dallas Cowboys news from Blogging The Boys