Why LeSean McCoy, Not Michael Vick, Is Key to Philadelphia Eagles' Success

Michael Vick's name may be synonymous with the usually-prolific Eagles offense, but "Shady" McCoy is the real driving force behind the Eagles offense. 

During Andy Reid's tenure, the Eagles have never been known as a running team. This year, however, the Eagles lead the NFL in rushing. 

That is not a product of an incredibly productive offensive line (although they have improved as the season has worn on). This is a direct result of LeSean's ability to make defenders miss and get huge chunks of yardage out of even the most ordinary plays.

When you have a running back that is as elusive and quick as McCoy, it forces defenses to bring an extra defender, usually a safety, into the box to defend the run. Going against loaded fronts, Vick can utilize his weapons and move the Eagles up and down the field in the blink of an eye. When you combine a good back with a quarterback with rare elusive skills that Michael Vick has, it forces defenses to roll the dice in coverage or defending the run. 

Where McCoy really shines is on third downs. If opponents are going to give the Eagles a "light" box, meaning there are only seven or fewer guys in to defend the run, the Eagles have no qualms about checking to a draw or any other type of run play, and trusting that McCoy will make enough guys miss to get a first down. If defenses get too aggressive, Shady is great at catching passes out of the backfield and is a huge threat to score in the screen game. 

No matter where the Eagles are on the field, whenever LeSean touches the ball, he is always a threat to take it to the house. Right now, you will have a tough time finding a back that is playing at a higher level than LeSean McCoy.