Jamal Lewis' rushing record - meaningful or not?

[Craig S.]

Jamal Lewis had a spectacular game yesterday in setting the NFL record for most rushing yards in a game. What I'm wondering is whether the record means a lot, or whether he just happened to have a very good week.

The record he broke was held by Corey Dillon, a future HOFer. Dillon had broken the previous mark set by HOFer Walter Payton, who himself had bettered the record set by HOFer O.J. Simpson. Does that mean anything, or do you think any decent back could have a good enough week to set the record?

Personally, I don't think it means much. It's an amazing number, but that's about it. I remember one week a few years ago when Mike Anderson of the Broncos put up over 250, and 3 other guys broke the 200 mark, inlcuding Warrick Dunn. Like Flipper Anderson's receiving mark, I don't think it's a sign of greatness. I don't think any putz can do it, but I think a great deal of fortune is involved.

[Wolf Hopper]

Corey Dillon is a future HOFer?

I don't watch the NFL a lot these days. Maybe I should?

Back on topic - what was interesting was that, reportedly, Lewis called his shot - - telling a Browns' player before the game that he was getting 30 carries and that he would break the all time record.

Now, if true, THAT'S impressive.

[sweaver]

I don't watch the NFL a lot these days. Maybe I should?

Naaaaaaaaaaaah.

No more a sign of greatness than hitting four homers in one game. But it's cool, nonetheless.

[LeGrandOrange]

It's not a majorly important record in the scheme of things but it's fun to have.

This record doesn't impress me that much though, considering that Corey Dillon did his against a team that was one of the best defenses in the league if I recall. The Browns defense isn't oft-lauded.

As for Dillon being a HOF'er, he's got 6 straight 1,000 yard seasons to begin his career, he's got himself a good start at it. But I'll say he won't be one because he's a probation-era Husky.

[Ytown Tribe fan]

I think it means the Browns are in for a long season.

[KCBOOMER]

Single game records are next to meaningless. It did mean he made a major contribution to his team's victory, but so did his offensive lineman.

[Ytown Tribe fan]

I guess the big thing is that Lewis came out and said he was gonna run the ball right down Cleveland's throat, B-more all but shelved the passing game, and he was STILL able to do it.

He would've had over 300 but for a play called back by the officials.

Still, I'd like to see him do it again against ANY other team.