Smashmouth Returns: Why NFL Teams are Re-Embracing the Power Run in 2025

Smashmouth Returns: Why NFL Teams are Re-Embracing the Power Run in 2025

The ground is rumbling once again. After years of aerial assaults dominating the NFL landscape, a seismic shift is occurring. Teams are rediscovering the power of the run, and defenses are bracing for impact. In 2024, the Philadelphia Eagles, led by Saquon Barkley who rushed for 2,005 yards, bulldozed their way to a Super Bowl victory, proving that a dominant ground game is still a recipe for success. But why now? What’s fueling this resurgence of smashmouth football in 2025?

The Pendulum Swings: Defenses Adjust, Offenses Adapt

The NFL is a league of constant evolution. As defenses became increasingly focused on stopping the pass, deploying lighter, more athletic linebackers and two-high safety looks, opportunities arose for offenses to exploit their physicality on the ground. According to AP News, NFL teams are averaging 119.5 rushing yards per game, up from 112.7 last season. While rushing attempts remain relatively consistent, the success of those attempts is significantly higher.

“You always try to keep defenses honest, and they’re doing the same thing back to you, so it’s a little bit of a cat-and-mouse game on the number of people in the box,” said Chiefs coach Andy Reid. This chess match between offensive and defensive coordinators is a key driver behind the power run’s return.

The Titans’ Two-Headed Monster: Henry and Spears

The Tennessee Titans are a prime example of a team committed to the run. With the ageless Derrick Henry and the explosive Tyjae Spears in the backfield, the Titans possess a formidable ground attack. Henry, even in his tenth season, remains a force to be reckoned with, while Spears provides a dynamic complement with his speed and agility.

Offensive coordinator Tim Kelly has made it clear that the Titans’ identity is built upon establishing the run. “We want to be physical, we want to control the clock, and we want to wear defenses down,” Kelly stated during a press conference. The Titans’ commitment to the run is evident in their offensive line investments, drafting players specifically suited for power-blocking schemes.

Buffalo Bills: James Cook and a Transformed Offensive Line

The Buffalo Bills, led by running back James Cook, have also experienced a resurgence in their running game. According to CBS Sports, from Week 13 of the 2024 season, the Bills’ EPA (Expected Points Added) per rush was the best in the NFL. This transformation is largely attributed to the Bills’ offensive line, which has become a dominant force in run blocking.

“Buffalo’s offensive line has transformed into a unit that can mash the opponent over and over throughout the course of a game,” notes CBS Sports analyst Chris Trapasso. The Bills’ commitment to deploying six offensive linemen has further solidified their ground game, creating consistent running lanes for Cook.

The Eagles’ “Tush Push” and Barkley’s Dominance

No discussion about power running is complete without mentioning the Philadelphia Eagles. Their “tush push” quarterback sneak has become one of the most unstoppable plays in the league, and the addition of Saquon Barkley has elevated their ground game to new heights.

Barkley’s ability to break tackles and gain yards after contact makes him a perfect fit for the Eagles’ power-running scheme. With a strong offensive line and a commitment to running the ball, the Eagles are a nightmare matchup for opposing defenses.

Offensive Line Investments: Building a Foundation for Success

The return of the power run has also led to increased emphasis on offensive line play. Teams are investing heavily in acquiring and developing mauling offensive linemen who excel at run blocking.

The Atlanta Falcons, for example, have built one of the league’s premier run-blocking units. According to NBC Sports, Pro Football Focus graded the Falcons as the league’s best run-blocking unit in 2024. With Bijan Robinson running behind this dominant offensive line, the Falcons are poised to be a force in the running game for years to come.

The Chargers Embrace “Old School Football”

The Los Angeles Chargers, under the leadership of coach Jim Harbaugh, are another team embracing the power run. According to Sports Info Solutions, the Chargers are a “gap-scheme, play action-heavy offense that orients itself around power and counter runs.” Harbaugh’s commitment to “old school football” is a clear indication that the power run is here to stay.

The Passing Game Still Matters

While the power run is making a comeback, it’s important to note that the passing game remains crucial. Teams need to have a balanced offensive attack to keep defenses guessing. As Chiefs coach Andy Reid noted, offenses must keep defenses honest.

The Future of the Power Run

The resurgence of the power run is not a fleeting trend. It’s a strategic adjustment to the evolving landscape of the NFL. As defenses continue to prioritize stopping the pass, offenses will continue to exploit their physicality on the ground.

The teams that embrace the power run, invest in their offensive lines, and commit to a balanced offensive attack will be the ones that ultimately succeed. The ground game is back, and it’s here to stay.