Who held the NFL rushing record before Eric Dickerson? The record was held by O.J. Simpson, who set a new standard for rushing yards in a single season. Simpson’s record stood for nearly two decades before being broken by Dickerson in 1984.
O.J. Simpson, a running back for the Buffalo Bills, achieved this remarkable feat during the 1973 season. He rushed for an incredible 2,003 yards, which was a new benchmark for the NFL. Simpson’s performance was not only a testament to his own athletic prowess but also a reflection of the era’s offensive football strategies.
Despite the impressive nature of Simpson’s record, it was not without its controversies. Some critics argued that the record was not as significant as it seemed due to the era’s offensive line and the fact that Simpson was often double-teamed. However, there is no denying the impact Simpson had on the game of football.
In 1984, Eric Dickerson, a running back for the Los Angeles Rams, broke Simpson’s record with an even more astonishing performance. Dickerson rushed for 2,105 yards during the 1984 season, surpassing Simpson’s mark by a mere 102 yards. This achievement was made even more remarkable by the fact that Dickerson accomplished this feat in a 16-game season, as opposed to the 14-game season that Simpson played in.
Dickerson’s record-breaking season was a combination of skill, determination, and a supportive offensive line. He was known for his explosive speed and ability to break tackles, which allowed him to accumulate a significant number of yards. His performance in 1984 not only broke Simpson’s record but also set the stage for a new era of running backs in the NFL.
In conclusion, O.J. Simpson held the NFL rushing record before Eric Dickerson. Simpson’s record of 2,003 yards in 1973 was a significant achievement that stood for nearly two decades. However, it was Dickerson’s record-breaking 2,105 yards in 1984 that truly etched his name in NFL history. Both players left an indelible mark on the game, and their records continue to be a source of inspiration for running backs today.
