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Norwood, Impressive Rookie Stats

Filed Under MSU Alumni, Mississippi State Sports | Posted on October 11, 2006

Atlanta Falcons rookie running back Jerious Norwood has been quite impressive through the first four games of the season.

RUSHES : 26

YDS : 217

AVG : 8.3

TDS : 1

LONG: 78

The Falcons face a NY Giants defense this weekend that is tough against the run. Hopefully the Falcons can find a way to get the former MSU star the football.

Jerious had a 78 yard TD run against the Cardinals in week 4. He continued to show the explosiveness that he exhibited in the preseason. It’s easy to see how the Falcons had no problem dealing veteran TJ Duckett in the preseason to the Redskins. Dan Pompei of the Sporting News had this to say about Jerious:

Rookie RB Jerious Norwood is looking like he could be the future for the Falcons’ running game. The coaches have been trying to find ways to get him on the field, and they haven’t been shy about using him in almost any situation. For a rookie, Norwood has been outstanding at pass protection, so he could play in nickel situations if something happened to RB Warrick Dunn or FB Justin Griffith. Norwood also has been better than advertised at dipping his shoulder and getting the ugly yards. The coaches still would like to see Norwood dance less and be more decisive with his cuts. . . .

Michael Vick on Jerious:

“He is a playmaker. Those are the plays he is going to make. He came into the game with fresh legs and he is a spark to the offense. We have to get the ball in his hands in different situations and different times in the game. I am just glad the kid is on my team. He has the ability to get in open space and make one guy miss and be gone. I have to work a little harder for my yards. I have a short burst, but that is all I need as a quarterback.”

Humble Jerious:

Norwood on realizing he sparked the team against the Cardinals:
“I really don’t think like that. I just go out and have fun and play ball. It’s not always going to be good. Things aren’t always going to happen like that, but when they do, it’s a great feeling and I’m just happy to a part of everything that’s going on here.”

I think I speak for all Bulldog fans when I say, “We miss you Jerious, but good luck”. Be sure to check out the Falcons Fan Downloads for wallpaper and images of Jerious.