Post by Free Agent Fan on Mar 1, 2007 19:55:09 GMT -5
Jackson finding out about indoor running backs
By Bob Ferrante
James Jackson has learned quickly: To be an arena-football running back is a lot of grunt work. Handing the ball off 20-25 times a game just isn't the way the game is played indoors.
That suits the former Lincoln High standout just fine.
While he's primarily used as a blocker, the 6-foot, 250-pound Jackson has shown his quickness and made the most of his limited carries. He has three touchdown runs and 71 yards, often breaking to the outside and eluding - or running over - opposing linebackers.
"That's how I look at it," said Jackson, who already has half the number of touchdowns he had in his Lincoln career. "With arena football, you never know when you're going to get your next carry.
"To me getting the ball is not my thing. It's all about winning."
Titans coach Keven Jackson says he asks running backs to do the same thing indoors as they would in college football or the NFL.
"Block, keep the quarterback safe, get first downs in short-yardage situations," Jackson said. "He's played real well."
James Jackson has played on both sides of the football, using his knowledge as a defensive lineman and fullback (Lincoln) and linebacker (Santa Monica College) to his advantage.
And playing pro football in his hometown is something Jackson says he and his teammates relish.
"It feels like high school all over again Ð but we're getting paid," Jackson said. "It's like a Tallahassee all-star team. This is the best show on turf right now."
By Bob Ferrante
James Jackson has learned quickly: To be an arena-football running back is a lot of grunt work. Handing the ball off 20-25 times a game just isn't the way the game is played indoors.
That suits the former Lincoln High standout just fine.
While he's primarily used as a blocker, the 6-foot, 250-pound Jackson has shown his quickness and made the most of his limited carries. He has three touchdown runs and 71 yards, often breaking to the outside and eluding - or running over - opposing linebackers.
"That's how I look at it," said Jackson, who already has half the number of touchdowns he had in his Lincoln career. "With arena football, you never know when you're going to get your next carry.
"To me getting the ball is not my thing. It's all about winning."
Titans coach Keven Jackson says he asks running backs to do the same thing indoors as they would in college football or the NFL.
"Block, keep the quarterback safe, get first downs in short-yardage situations," Jackson said. "He's played real well."
James Jackson has played on both sides of the football, using his knowledge as a defensive lineman and fullback (Lincoln) and linebacker (Santa Monica College) to his advantage.
And playing pro football in his hometown is something Jackson says he and his teammates relish.
"It feels like high school all over again Ð but we're getting paid," Jackson said. "It's like a Tallahassee all-star team. This is the best show on turf right now."