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Adrian Peterson Can Win Another Rushing Title

By Paul Bellesen

Dec 20, 2015; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson (28) runs onto the field before the game against the Chicago Bears at TCF Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 20, 2015; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson (28) runs onto the field before the game against the Chicago Bears at TCF Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports /
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Adrian Peterson, now 31 years old, has shown no sort of decline in his production and there are some that think that train will continue to roll.

After a year off due to suspension, there were some questions about what would the production look like from Adrian Peterson in 2015. Some were questioning that due to his age and the history of running backs at the age of thirty and above. A lot of people thought he might lose a step after all the years of large production.

We must remember this is the same Adrian that tore his ACL and MCL and was supposed to never be the same, yet he came back eight months later and ran for 2097 yards and won the league’s MVP award. It would not be smart to bet against Peterson.

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Last season Peterson won his third NFL rushing title, accumulating a total of 1485 yards. It seemed as if he was refreshed from taking a year off, which meant a year of not being tackled by NFL lineman and defensive backs. Last season there were the fewest number of 1,000-yard rushers since 1991. Although, Peterson did not take a step back.

The guys over at NFL.com put together a list of who they thought would win this year’s rushing title. Between six analysts, the decision was a split. There were three votes for Peterson. The other three votes were for Rams running back Todd Gurley.

Here is what the analysts had to say.

"Heath EvansWriter | NFL.com+ Follow On TwitterAdrian Peterson isn’t human — he’s a rushing godAdrian Peterson is just a different breed, and he continues to impress me year after year. I expect him to continue dominating, even as the Vikings‘ passing game and defense improve. The only thing that could keep him from winning his fourth rushing title would be an injury."

"Ike TaylorWriter | NFL.com+ Follow On TwitterPeterson’s the best bet, but Le’Veon Bell could come back with a vengeanceAdrian Peterson is going to win the rushing title once again. I think the Vikings‘ passing game is going to be the best it has been since Teddy Bridgewater joined the team in 2014, with Stefon Diggs, first-round draft pickLaquon Treadwell and tight end Kyle Rudolph at the young QB’s disposal. That will open up the run game a little bit more for AP."

"Nate BurlesonWriter | NFL.com+ Follow On TwitterPeterson will pace the league yet again — followed by Gurley and Ezekiel ElliottHistory has taught us not to count on an aging back to lead the league in rushing. History also has taught us not to doubt Adrian Peterson. Todd Gurley will be a close second, followed by Ezekiel Elliott.When AP sets his mind to something, he’s going to accomplish it. On top of that, Peterson is the go-to player in Minnesota’s offense. He had 327 carries last season, and I expect he’ll have around that same amount again in 2016."

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People around NFL circles respect Peterson and see him for the physical specimen he is. He is going to be 31 this season, but Peterson is not the normal 31-year-old. Peterson is not the normal football player. It is expected for the Vikings offense to open up a little more this season. Even if that happens, the is still Peterson’s team and he will still be the focal point of this offense. I fully expect Peterson to have a better year with the Vikings offensive line additions. Peterson has some great years left.

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