The Run/Pass ratio in the NFL is a statistic that betrays the current Eagles plan
by John Kincade
There is a lot of discussion about the need for balance in an offense to be successful in the NFL. Honestly that is a talking point that needs revising. The amount of passing percentage in the NFL has risen over time, but the totals look like an erratic EKG. Take this quiz and see if this changes your opinion about trying to win by reliance on running the football.
How many NFL teams ran the ball more than 51% in the 2021 season?
In 2021: 1… the Philadelphia Eagles
In 2020: 3
In 2019: 2
Only one team was more than 51%! That was the Eagles at 52.7%. No more than 3 teams have thrown it 51% recently, so the shift in philosophy is dictating how the game is played.
How many NFL teams threw the ball more than 55%?
In 2021: 19
In 2020: 22
In 2019: 24
A 55/45 Pass to Run Ratio is becoming the new norm. Seeing the Eagles go from nearly 53% to 45% run seems too large a gap to adjust in one season.
How many NFL teams threw the ball more than 60%
In 2021: 7
In 2020: 9
In 2019: 10
The last 5 years Super Bowl Champions had a very decided slant. Three of the last five champions have passed over 59% of the time. Considering that championship clubs tend to run the ball a lot in the second half of games where they hold a lead it shows that first half passing numbers are actually closer to 70%+.
2021: Rams – 40.9/59.1
2020: Bucs – 37.1/62.9
2019: Chiefs – 39.4/60.6
2018: Patriots – 45.4/54.6
2017: Eagles – 45.6/54.4
The modern day championship average is 41.7/58.3
The Eagles are looking to move into the contender category. Running the ball 52.7% of the time isn’t going to cut it. How far do we want to see the needle moved this year? I’m hoping they get to passing it about 52% of the time. A jump of almost 5% seems extreme, but it’s the first half passing numbers that need to explode.
You can win in the NFL with a strong running game. What is apparent is that it can’t be what leads you to a championship.