In Week 9 of the NFL season, the focus was on standout performances from both run blockers and defenders, with particular emphasis on the Chicago Bears and Kansas City Chiefs.
The Chicago Bears offensive line showcased its strength against the Cincinnati Bengals, with tackle Darnell Wright delivering an exceptional performance. Wright achieved a career-high PFF run-blocking grade of 95.5, playing a pivotal role in the Bears” dominant run game.
Joining him in recognition was guard Jonah Jackson, who also excelled, earning an 89.7 run-blocking grade. Together, they have significantly improved the Bears” run-blocking capabilities, now ranking as the sixth-best unit in the league for the season.
On the defensive side, linebacker Nick Bolton of the Kansas City Chiefs turned in a remarkable performance despite his team”s loss to the Buffalo Bills. Bolton recorded three tackles, six assisted tackles, and three run stops, achieving a stellar 93.2 run-defense grade, marking one of the best games of his career.
Other noteworthy performances included Ryan Neuzil from the Atlanta Falcons, who earned an 84.0 PFF run-blocking grade, solidifying his position among the top centers in the league this season.
Edge defender Andrew Van Ginkel of the Minnesota Vikings made a significant impact in his return from injury, finishing as the highest-graded run-defending edge rusher in Week 9 with a grade of 80.6. His two run stops were crucial in containing the Lions” run game.
Finally, defensive tackle Travis Jones of the Baltimore Ravens delivered an impressive performance against the Dolphins. With an 86.4 run-defense grade, he helped limit Miami”s scoring to just six points, showcasing his ability as a run defender.
This week”s performances highlight the importance of run blocking and defense in the NFL, proving that a strong run game can be just as vital as a potent passing attack.
