NFL Predictions Week 8: DeMarco Murray and RBs Who Will Crush Opponents

The 2011 season kicked off with a bunch of high flying aerial attacks that were the face of the NFL for multiple weeks.

Much of that is to blame on the sloppy play of defenses following the offseason lockout.

Now that teams are beginning to get it together on defense, we are seeing the rushing attack become a more viable option for teams across the league.

Here are three running backs who will dismantle their opponents this weekend.

1. DeMarco Murray, Dallas Cowboys

This week we have a one-week wonder facing off against another one-week wonder.

In Week 6, the Eagles finally put together a decent defensive performance shutting down the Redskins rushing attack. They had been abysmal all season until that showing.

Last weekend, Cowboys rookie running back DeMarco Murray ran for 253 yards against the Rams. That total broken Emmitt Smith's franchise record of 237 yards.

This one could go either way this upcoming week, but I have little faith in this Eagles defense.

2. Adrian Peterson, Minnesota Vikings

Adrian Peterson is back where he belongs. He is once again the leading rusher in the NFL.

Peterson has 712 yards and eight touchdowns after seven weeks of play. The Vikings will rely heavy on the run game with Christian Ponder now starting at quarterback.

This weekend Peterson will be facing off against a Carolina Panthers defense that is currently ranked 29th in the league stopping the run.

Cam Newton vs. Christian Ponder may be the big story, but Peterson could be the difference maker.

3. Chris Johnson, Tennessee Titans

Chris Johnson may want to be paid like the best player in the NFL, but he surely hasn't been performing like the best player in the NFL.

Actually, he's been performing like the 32nd best running back in the NFL.

Seriously, Chris Johnson is currently ranked 32nd in the league in yards rushing. His 268 yards and 2.9 average is laughable.

If there is any week that Johnson will get it going, it's this upcoming week.

The Titans play the Indianapolis Colts, a team that just lost 62-7. The same team that is 31st in the league in rushing defense.

Chris Johnson should rip this team apart. If he doesn't then I don't know if I'll ever hop back on the CJ2K bandwagon.