Change of pace running back

In American football, a player informally known as a change-of-pace running back is a substitute for the starting running back, usually a player who is a better wide receiver or outside runner than the starter but not necessarily better overall. The idea is that the other team's defense has been designed to stop the starting running back, but may be less well prepared for the substitute player. The change-of-pace back is usually not just a backup, who might have similar characteristics to the team's top running back, but is someone who forces the opposing defense to change its strategy when he is on the field.

References

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Positions in American football and Canadian football
Offense (Skill position) Defense Special teams
Linemen Tackle, Guard, Center Linemen Nose tackle, Tackle, End, Edge rusher Kicking Placekicker, Punter, Kickoff specialist
Quarterback (Dual-threat, Game manager, System) Linebacker Snapping Long snapper, Holder
Running backs Halfback/Tailback (Triple-threat, Change of pace), Fullback, H-back, Wingback Backs Cornerback, Safety, Halfback, Nickelback, Dimeback Returning Punt returner, Kick returner, Jammer, Upman
Receivers Wide receiver (Eligible), Tight end, Slotback, End Tackling Gunner, Upback, Utility
Formations (List)NomenclatureStrategy


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