Raiders tailback Michael Bush is an exceptionally intriguing talent. Originally recruited to Louisville as a quarterback, Bush eventually settled in at running back and was a preseason favorite for the 2006 Heisman Trophy before suffering a season-ending, complex leg fracture in the Cardinals’ opener. He fell all the way to the fourth round of the 2007 draft.
When given extended opportunities in Oakland, Bush has flashed dominant ability. Proving his leg was recovered in 2008, Bush exploded for 90- and 177-yard efforts in the only two games he received 15 or more carries. Last season, he averaged 4.8 yards per rushing attempt and erupted for 119- and 133-yard efforts in the only two games he was given 14 or more carries.
In addition to under-utilizing him, the Raiders’ coaching staff has inexplicably tinkered with Bush throughout his three-year career. Coach Tom Cable attempted to convert Bush into a lead blocker midway through the 2008 season. Six weeks after the idea was broached, injuries thrust Bush into the primary ball-carrying role against Tampa Bay, and the aforementioned 177-yard, two-touchdown game ensued.
Rumors of Bush being available for trade have also been plentiful. Now, the Raiders’ coaching staff is trying to tweak his running style.
Though the quick-footed Bush is talented enough to consistently make defenders miss, save his body from monster hits, and catch the football as few size-gifted running backs can, the Raiders want Bush to “discover his inner beast,” according to Jerry McDonald of the Oakland Tribune.
New offensive coordinator Hue Jackson is expected to implement more power blocking to go with Cable’s trademark zone system on the offensive line. During OTAs, Jackson reportedly “talked tough on the field about not caring whether the defense knows [the play call] is a run, because he’s going to run it anyway.”
Expecting power from a 245-pound tailback isn’t a novel concept, but the Raiders don’t seem to be playing to Bush’s strengths. He is a versatile, elusive runner who’s excellent in pass protection and instinctive enough to know when to lower his shoulder, and when to not.
Following the offseason release of Justin Fargas, the Raiders have opened their starting tailback job to competition between Bush and emerging bust Darren McFadden. With draft status, salary, and presumably owner Al Davis’ support on the former No. 4 overall pick McFadden’s side, Bush, oddly, may have to reinvent his game in order to capture the first-string position he’s arguably deserved two years running.