Darren Sproles More Electric Than LaDainian Tomlinson?

Before the season, I wrote an article describing Darren Sproles as the most underrated running back in the NFL. However, he's now beyond simply underrated. Sproles showed his talents on Sunday against the Broncos, gaining 317 all purpose yards and collecting two touchdowns.

Sproles is such a talented player and I think that he could be one of the best running backs in the NFL. Maybe the Chargers should think about using him as much as LaDainian Tomlinson?

Tomlinson didn't seem to be as dominant last year as he was during his MVP 2006 season. The offensive line hadn't changed much, yet LT's numbers dropped quite a bit.

Then in the playoffs, Tomlinson, who is rarely ever injured, got hurt. And yet without him the Chargers didn't seem to miss a beat, as they defeated the Colts and advanced to the AFC championship game.

LT's injury problems have continued this year. On Sunday against the Broncos, he was bothered by a toe injury and wasn't much of a factor, with only 10 carries for 26 yards. 

Sproles on the other hand had seven carries for 53 yards, two receptions for 72 yards and a touchdown, and a 103 yard kickoff return for a touchdown.

I'm not saying that LT isn't a great back anymore. I just don't think he's the MVP caliber player he once was. I think that Sproles' time has come and he is destined for greatness.

He is the quickest player I've ever seen besides Barry Sanders, and he is freakishly strong for his 5'6" frame.

It might seem as though I am overreacting to this past game. However, it's not just about this game. Every time I've seen him play, he's wowed me. Why do you think I wrote that article earlier this year?

The Chargers don't seem to have as good a defense as last year and they need to start using Sproles more this year if they want to have a chance at winning the Super Bowl.

Here are some of Sproles' highlights:

2007 Week 15 regular-season game against the Lions.

2008 Preseason Week Three against the Seahawks.

2008 Week Two regular-season game against the Broncos