Sean Payton Finally Figured Out the Broncos’ Run Game

On its own, that feat holds little significance. As recently as last year, less established backs, such as Patrick Taylor and Ameer Abdullah, reached the century mark. However, when combined with Dobbins’ previous outings of 63, 76, and 83 rushing yards, an upward trend is emerging.

Dobbins has seemingly gotten better every game and is becoming Payton’s first truly reliable running back in Denver.

Since becoming the Broncos’ head coach, Payton has shown he wants to run the ball. In his first two years, though, he lacked the personnel to do so. His offenses ranked 13th and 18th in rushing attempts those seasons, while Williams, the lead back, finished 42nd and 29th in rushing yards across the league.

Fast forward to now: the Broncos rank 9th in rushing attempts, and Dobbins is 4th in yards through four weeks. Dobbins’ combination of power and speed allows Payton to run his offense the way he envisioned. But Dobbins might not be the only one making that possible.

How Can Harvey Help?

Payton has leaned on workhorse backs in the past, but his offenses have also thrived with multiple contributors. In New Orleans, Kamara and Ingram split carries for a few years while players like Murray and Taysom Hill were heavily involved.

Early in Kamara’s career, Payton won back-to-back NFC South titles using Ingram as the power back and Kamara as the versatile, pass-catching back.

Therefore, it is likely that Payton will rely on RJ Harvey to fill that early Kamara role for Denver.

Harvey’s 4.40 speed and reliable hands out of the backfield make him the perfect yin to Dobbins’ yang. Though he wasn’t featured much in the previous three games, Harvey saw more work in Week 4—logging 14 carries for 58 yards, plus four receptions for 40 yards and his first career touchdown.

His performance against the Bengals proved two things: first, that Payton trusts him, as Harvey recorded more carries in that game than in the first three weeks combined (13). Second, that Harvey is up for the challenge, as he played his role perfectly.

Sean Payton’s Reminiscent Roster

Denver fans knew that it would take Payton time to assemble the right pieces. Now that the third year is underway, those pieces are falling into place. Beyond the run game, other parallels to his Saints offenses have emerged.

Payton drafted Bo Nix because he reminded him of Drew Brees. Nix’s game-managing play style and tremendous deep ball have so far exemplified Payton’s theory. Courtland Sutton has slid into the Michael Thomas role as the sure-handed outside receiver. Payton even brought over tight end Adam Trautman, who he briefly coached in New Orleans.

Now with Dobbins, Harvey, and the rest of the supporting cast, Sean Payton has completed his puzzle. And with these pieces in place, he can attempt to lead Denver to success and prosperity the way he did with New Orleans.

As for the rest of the league, they’d better be on the lookout for when the Broncos’ backs come galloping through.