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There's no fixed date or week for National Running Backs Day, and it's unlikely one will ever be established. But the second annual celebration of NBC's made-up holiday will take place in full force, robes and all, on Sunday night in Atlanta.
NBC selected the matchup between the Falcons (2-2) and the Baltimore Ravens (1-3), a primetime showdown that pits Bijan Robinson against Derrick Henry in a battle of two of the NFL's top ball-carriers.
"This year, it worked out perfectly," NBC sideline reporter Melissa Stark told The Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
Robinson, arguably the league's best running back, is no stranger to the spotlight on his position's special day. The Falcons played on National Running Backs Day last year in the inaugural edition, losing to the San Francisco 49ers.
"They started a tradition together with the running back room, so it's a perfect place to start the season off much earlier," Robinson said. "We had fun in it. We've become close friends and continue to build."
Robinson, the No. 8 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, has rushed for 1,502 yards and 12 touchdowns in his career, including 375 yards and two scores this season. He ranks fourth in the NFL in rushing yards and leads the league with seven rushing touchdowns, tied with Derrick Henry and J.K. Dobbins.
Henry, a former NFL rushing champion, has amassed 9,849 career rushing yards and 98 touchdowns. At 31, he remains one of the most powerful and productive runners in the league.
The two running backs have taken different paths to stardom. Robinson, known for his elusive running style and receiving ability, has also thrown a touchdown pass this season. Henry, a 6-foot-3, 247-pound bruiser, has a more physical approach.
"You can't define him by one thing," Robinson said of Henry. "He's a great person, great player, and he's been doing it at a high level for a long time."
Stark, who has covered the NFL for years, noted the significance of the day. "It's just fun," she said. "The running backs get to shine, and it's a great way to celebrate the position."
Falcons head coach Raheem Morris has emphasized the importance of the running game. "We want to be able to run the ball effectively," he said. "It sets up everything else."
The Falcons and Ravens will kick off at 8:20 p.m. ET on Sunday night. For Robinson and Henry, it's another chance to showcase their talents on a national stage.
Key Analysis
National Running Backs Day may be a creation of NBC, but it shines a spotlight on a position that often gets overlooked in today's pass-happy NFL. The matchup between Robinson and Henry represents a clash of styles: Robinson's versatility and speed against Henry's power and experience. Both players have the ability to take over a game, and their performances could go a long way in determining the outcome. For the Falcons, a win would keep them in the NFC South race, while the Ravens are desperate to avoid a 1-4 start. The game also serves as a reminder of the value of a strong running game, even in an era dominated by quarterbacks.
Originally reported by ajc.