Commanders RB Brian Robinson Jr.'s frustration
Brian Robinson Jr. continues to be a real bright spot for the Washington Commanders in 2023. The running back was one of the few offensive players to emerge from last weekend's loss to the Buffalo Bills with any semblance of credit, gaining 70 rushing yards from just 10 carries and flashing the explosiveness that enhanced confidence in his potential as the team's long-term lead option at the position.
One criticism to emerge from the Commanders' offensive scheme so far has been a lack of focus on establishing the run right out of the gate. When discussing this exact topic, the former Alabama star was clearly frustrated at his lack of involvement despite such outstanding production based on his comments via Sports Illustrated.
"Invest in the run game. Numerous amounts of time we put in positive yards in the run game. I would love to stick to it as a running back but sometimes that’s not what’s best for the offense. With that being said, I’ve just got to control what I can control. When my number’s called, I’ve just got to make the most of it."Brian Robinson via Sports Illustrated
Robinson has a point and Eric Bieniemy should know this as an experienced offensive mind. There does need to be more balance early on, although the slow starts have left them in a hole over the first three contests that cannot be ignored.
It remains to be seen whether the Commanders force-feed Robinson the football at the Philadelphia Eagles. They aren't the easiest team to run all over thanks to an exceptional defensive front, so it'll be a challenge for Bieniemy and his primary weapons to create the mismatches needed.