NFL Playoff Running Back Rankings

1). LaDainian Tomlinson

Although the Tennessee Titans were able to stop him last week, LaDainian Tomlinson of the San Diego Chargers is the most dominant running back in all of the NFL. Even though he was held to only 42 yards rushing last week, he still managed to score a touchdown to seal the victory. His balance of speed and power makes him such a great runner.

2). Fred Taylor

Fred Taylor of the Jacksonville Jaguars has returned to being one of the top backs in the NFL after having a few slow seasons. In his tenth season in the NFL, Taylor ran for over 1,000 yards rushing this season. Taylor's vision to see the holes, as well as he quickness hitting the holes, is what makes him special.

3). Joseph Addai

Joseph Addai enters his second season in the NFL, and his second season as being the Colts starting running back. He has instantly become one of the top backs in the league, and has fit in well with the fast paced offence of Indianapolis. He also has the ability to catch and run from out of the backfield.

4). Marion Barber

The Dallas Cowboys running attack is finally back to what it used to be with the great Emmitt Smith. Barber has taken over the starting position this year, and has led the Cowboys to the top of the NFC. Even though he has struggled towards the end of the season, he will look to use his speed to beat the tough defense of the Giants.

5). Ryan Grant

Ryan Grant's success this season may be one of the biggest surprises around the league. He has lead the Packers back into the playoffs with the help of quarterback great Brett Favre. Although he didn't have as many carries as the big names, he is averaging over 5 yards per carry, and has the ability to go the distance on every run.

6). Brandon Jacobs

Brandon Jacobs of the New York Giants has stepped up big this year, filling the void of retired running back Tiki Barber. Even though Jacobs has been splitting time with other backs for most of the year, he has made big plays when the Giants have needed it most, providing stability to the often shaky Eli Manning.

7). Laurence Maroney

Even though Laurence Maroney isn't the fastest back in the NFL, he has been able to use his size to gain quite a few yards this year. Running behind the great offensive line of the New England Patriots, he has been pivotal to the perfect season by his ability to provide a change of pace to the explosive passing game.

8). Maurice Jones-Drew

The Jacksonville Jaguars have not used Maurice Jones-Drew as much as they did in his breakout Rookie Season last year, but he made the best of every opportunity. Even though he is considered the backup, he still is able to make big plays whether it is from running out of the backfield, returning kickoffs, or catching screen passes, he has still been a contributor to the Jacksonville season.