Earlier in the team’s OTA’s, recently signed Indianapolis Colts running back Frank Gore only issued a glowing report about his new quarterback’s intelligence in Andrew Luck. However, it appears that professional admiration now goes both ways.
Today at Mini-Camp, Luck had nothing but high praise for his new starting running back in Gore. While many fans have been solely discussing Gore’s significance in upgrading the Colts ground game, it’s very easy to forget that he’s also a tremendous asset in the passing game, both in receiving and pass blocking, something his star quarterback has specifically taken notice of per the Indy Star’s Stephen Holder:
How smart a player is Frank Gore? Luck: "He’s picked up on a bunch of stuff that guys who have been here three years haven’t picked up."
— Stephen Holder (@HolderStephen) June 9, 2015
Luck also raved about Gore's pass protection. It's one of the biggest ways Luck will benefit from Gore's signing (outside of his rushing)
— Stephen Holder (@HolderStephen) June 9, 2015
Gore was always highly regarded for his exceptional ability to pass block while with the 49ers, and it appears that’s still holding true as a new member of the Colts. It’s worth noting that per ProFootballFocus (subscription), his 92.5 grade in pass blocking efficiency last season was the 16th best among running backs and just 3 spots behind the now departed Ahmad Bradshaw.
Not only is he strong at pass blocking; however, but Gore should also be expected to assume a larger role as a pass catcher out of the backfield while with the Colts next season. He wasn’t utilized much in this area as a 49er last year, but he’s always been a very competent receiver as a running back and should see his receiving usage spike:
On the flip, Gore's receiving usage will spike. #Colts targeted RBs 113 times last year. #49ers RBs had 39 targets + FB Bruce Miller's 25.
— Evan Silva (@evansilva) May 21, 2015
Luck’s not the only one gushing about Gore however. When asked about his new running back, Chuck Pagano praised his professionalism today at Colts mini-camp:
"“He’s a pro,” said Pagano. “He knows how to work, and he knows how to take care of his body, and that’s why he’s been able to do the things that he’s done to this point in his career. He doesn’t take time off. So, it’s year-round for Frank. He loves football and when the season’s over, it’s a nightmare for a guy like that. He’s just one of those guys.”"
It sounds like his new coaches and teammates are glowing about Gore all around. So far, it’s been a very smooth transition for the longtime 49ers running back, and the Colts and Luck are clearly happy to now have him in their offense.
Jun 9, 2015; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indianapolis Colts running back Frank Gore (23) talks to coach Chuck Pagano during minicamp at the Indiana Farm Bureau Football Center. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
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