Green Bay Packers: Eddie Lacy’s Work Ethic Paying Off
Eddie Lacy has been in top shape this season and, if he continues the pace he’s at, it could easily be a career year for the Green Bay Packers running back.
In 2015, it was rumored that Lacy was already washed up. After two seasons of over 1,100 yards each, Lacy’s production spiraled downward to 758 yards last year. One of the biggest reasons for his loss in production was his weight. He spent the 2016 offseason getting his weight back down in the 240s and it’s starting to show in his on-field performances.
This season, Lacy has already had a 100-yard game, which is the earliest in any season he’s ever accomplished that. He’s also averaging five yards per carry, which is a career best for Lacy. Another impressive stat is that Lacy is fourth among running backs in yards after contact with 2.21 yards.
Offensive coordinator Edgar Bennett spoke with ESPN’s Rob Demovsky about the Packers backfield saying:
"“As far as breaking tackles, making people miss, it was quite a few illustrations of our backs protecting the football and keeping their legs churning and then you saw our offensive line just push that pile,” Bennett said. “Those are the type of runs that you really love to see because it’s about finish and it’s about making every opportunity count, and that was exciting to see.”"
Unfortunately, Lacy has yet to score a touchdown this season. That’s due in part to more targets to a healthy Jordy Nelson. The other part is that coaches are focused on getting Lacy more touches rather than more scores.
Per Rob Demovsky of ESPN:
"“I mean, I want to score, yeah,” Lacy said. “Everybody wants to score at certain positions. It’s nothing that I’m like, if we get in the red zone or 5-yard line, I want to run. I’m all about winning at the end of the day, whether it’s me scoring or a pass play.”"
Lacy has the right attitude. His touchdowns will come and they’re sure to be spectacular when they do. He may not be the RB1 you want on your fantasy team, but he’s certainly returned to being the workhorse back the Packers have been needing.