Stet Sports Blog

He has all the aliases and Eastern Motors commercials any man could hope for in a lifetime, but does Clinton Portis have the goods to take the Washington Redskins deep into the playoffs this year?

A close look at the stats suggests an answer that won’t make Redskins fans happy.

With 2007 being Portis’ second season starting 16 games for Washington, he posted a career-high six fumbles, the second lowest yards per game average of his career (78.9) and a career low in total rushing yards in a season, when you take away his injury shortened 2007 campaign.

To be fair, Portis did post career highs in receptions and receiving yards, but it’s likely that Jim Zorn won’t be targeting Portis as a downfield threat.

Many running backs have broken down early on in their careers, especially those who play in run-heavy offenses. Before the explosion of LaDanian Tomlinson, Portis’ career looked to be tailor-made for Hall of Fame credentials. Injuries, tragedies, and an outdated coaching style have slowed his progress down significantly.

And, he sustained a hip injury in an off-season foot race with safety LaRon Landry.

You don’t wish for it, you don’t see it, but should we expect a decline from Clinton Portis this year?

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