(Photo: The Sporting News)
You can make a very good case that the University of Georgia is “Running Back U” as many big names have played for this program such as Herschel Walker, Terrell Davis, Todd Gurley, Nick Chubb and I’m sure I forgot some to add to the list. James Cook also played his college ball at Georgia, yes, I’m talking about the brother of Dalvin Cook. Since training camp started, James has been holding out due to a contract dispute with the Buffalo Bills. I knew he wouldn’t get the top dollar such as Saquon Barkley or Derrick Henry, but he deserved his money after rushing for 1,000 yards in consecutive seasons. The organization came to their senses and finally gave James the contract extension he earned which is a four-year deal worth $48 million.
If you have listened to me on The Prime, The Betting Window, or followed along on this website, one thing I consistently called the Buffalo Bills out for is their lack of balance and wanting Josh Allen to be a superhero and put the team on his back meaning he not only had to be the leading passer, but also the leading rusher and when you ask your Quarterback to do a little too much, it can burn them out for a stretch run which you don’t want. The best thing the Bills did was relieve Ken Dorsey of his play calling duties during the 2023 season and promoted Joe Brady to Offensive Coordinator and the rest is history. James is a work horse for this offense that can run the ball inside or outside of the tackles and he’s also a solid receiving back that Josh can check the ball down too. I say he’s the perfect blend of elusive and physical meaning he’s quick and can burst through lanes when he sees the light. The speed may not be lightning quick, but he’s still a fast individual who can turn on the burners when the ball is in his hands and he’s physical in the aspect of not hesitating to lower that shoulder and run through somebody which shows me that he will never shy away from contact. James’ separation speed is another thing you notice because when those feet of his get going, he drifts away and the defense has no chance of catching him. In watching him, one thing I noticed is when he first broke into the league how he would go down at first contact, but since then, he’s upped that part of his game and has that strength to remain on his feet.
Josh Allen may be the reigning Most Valuable Player, but James is the most important piece to this Buffalo offense as he impacts the game as both a rusher and receiver. Plus, he has taken an enormous amount of pressure off number 17 and added his own swagger to the offense. A wise man I know always says to “Let James Cook”, pun intended and when he does, the Bills are a better football team because of number four. I’m glad to see both sides were able to meet in the middle and come to an agreement.
