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Two Backs Are Better Than One
November 7 2002
By Bryan Hersh of 49ers Paradise
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Garrison Hearst and Kevan Barlow may not be both averaging over 5 yards a carry any more this season, but that doesn’t mean the two headed rushing attack has fallen off the mark. One of the reasons for the decline has been Hearst battling his hamstring injury and losing explosion - but the production is still there.

The 49ers are the only team with two players who have rushed for 400 yards more. This off-season the team said that they have a goal of having two 1000-yard rusher. Halfway through the season, each back would have to increase their production by an additional 50% to reach that goal, so it may not be that much of a reality.

Regardless of whether Hearst and Barlow can plough for a 1000 yard season each, the 49ers have been able to establish to independent rushers, while other teams struggle to have one such rusher. While Hearst and Barlow are both gifted, this is a testament to the run blocking of the offensive line and fullback Fred Beasley.

Further - Terrell Owens is just one touchdown away from moving into second place in club history for touchdowns. With the one touchdown Owens will move pass Roger Craig on the 49ers all-time list. Owens is also second to Randy Moss for most touchdowns since 1998. He trails by three.

Talk about it in the 49ers Paradise Forum

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