Lions running back Reggie Bush: Running game must improve

Lions running back Reggie Bush says the team needs to run the ball better, as they rank the bottom of the league in most rushing categories.

The Detroit Lions are 6-2 and sit atop of the NFC North, but it is not because of their rushing attack. The Lions’ 3.1 yards per rushing attempt is tied for last in the NFL and overall their rushing offense ranks second-to-last in the league. 

Detroit has compensated for its lack of success on the ground with excellent defense and a consistent passing attack. The Lions rank first in the NFL in total defense, and the team ranks ninth in passing yards per game. 

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Lions running back Reggie Bush says the team simply just needs to get back to running the ball better.

"We've got to be better, especially second half of the season when games start to become more important is when you really need your run game, especially on the road," Bush said to the Detroit Free Press. "We've got some tough road games coming up.”

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After hosting the 5-3 Miami Dolphins this Sunday, the Lions travel to 7-1 Arizona and 7-2 New England. 

Bush, who is averaging 3.2 yards per carry this season, says running lanes should open up with the return of All-Pro wide receiver Calvin Johnson, as defenses won’t be able to stack to the box against him and fellow running backs Joique Bell and Theo Riddick.

Johnson has missed the last three games with ankle injury and is expected to play in Sunday’s game against the Dolphins.

"We take it very personally," Bush said. "It's on us. There's nobody to point the finger at other than it's the running backs, the offensive line, the tight ends, the receivers. It's everybody altogether collectively. It takes 11 guys to run the football."

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