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Frank Gore Wasn’t Kidding About Those 8-Man Boxes

By Luke Schultheis

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Earlier, recently signed Indianapolis Colts running back Frank Gore acknowledged that he was really looking forward to facing more 6, 7 man defensive boxes with his new team. It turns out he wasn’t kidding either, as Gore faced more 8-man+ boxes than any other NFL running back last season while rushing for the San Francisco 49ers:

While the Colts largely lack the power run blocking prowess of the 49ers offensive line, the team does have young superstar quarterback Andrew Luck, which forces opposing defenses to stay honest against the pass and should lessen the amount of defensive personnel loaded in the box to seemingly stop Gore.

Consequently, Gore should frequently find that there are bigger holes and more open running lanes, even if the Colts offensive line isn’t as savvy in run blocking. Something that he’s already said will suit him just fine:

"“I can’t wait. Just knowing that you’re going into a game, not seeing 8-man, 9-man boxes,” said Gore previously at OTA’s. “This will be the first time in my career, where it’s a partly filled box. I just want to see how it really is with 6, 7 in a box. I’m excited about that.”"

However, Gore is more than fine with letting Luck handle the bulk of the offensive workload through the air, with him being utilized as a counter-punch on the ground. At this late stage in his career, Gore is only concerned with winning football games:

"“I feel like every game can be different,” Gore said via ESPN’s Mike Wells. “Some games if we have to throw 50-60 times to win, I’m with it. Sometimes we might have to pound it out. I simply want to win. That’s the reason I came here. Just to win.”"

If the Colts are hoisting the Lombardi Trophy come February, Gore solidifying the Colts backfield will be a big reason why.

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