The running back position is becoming less and less of a priority these days but there are still a few running backs who are game changers for their team. Jonathan Taylor is one of those guys for the Indianapolis Colts.
The second-year running back has already put himself out there as one of the best running backs in the league. The Colts relied on Taylor to take charge against the New England Patriots and that’s what he did. Taylor was already having a great game as his first 28 carries totaled 103 rushing yards. But with the Patriots having a 17-point fourth quarter to come within three points, Taylor’s 29th carry shut down the Patriots’ hopes of a comeback with a 67-yard touchdown to end the game once and for all.
"Jonathan Taylor to the house… good night!" pic.twitter.com/4LNj3JLVJ3
— The Comeback (@thecomeback) December 19, 2021
Taylor did more than run for 170 yards and score a TD. He was the lead block for Nyheim Hines’ touchdown in the first quarter and then picked up the blitz in the second quarter to buy Carson Wentz time and complete one of his longest passes of the night. Taylor may get the bulk of the carries but he’s smart, unselfish, and willing to do the dirty work when necessary. And I’m not just saying that because I have Taylor on my fantasy team and he’s trying to get me a fantasy championship.
Once again, social media took notice at Taylor’s play as the MVP talk gets louder and louder.
https://twitter.com/TreyStation5/status/1472417821632073728?s=20
Jonathan Taylor closing this game like… pic.twitter.com/hkzUk1DFxY
— Steve Wyche (@wyche89) December 19, 2021
The last time a running back was named MVP was Adrian Peterson in 2012. It’s still going to be difficult for Taylor to win MVP but he’s definitely going to make it tough for people to vote against him.