When looking at LaDainian Tomlinson's 2010 season, one can notice a definite trend. He averaged 5.6 yards per carry in September, 4.7 in October, 3.4 in November, and 3.3 in December. In his first eight games, he averaged 4.9 yards per carry. In his final seven, he averaged 3.3.
I do not think the numbers tell the entire story. I think part of his problem at times was his blocking. There were a lot of times he did not have much of a chance. He still showed a degree of burst late in the year. He also grinded out some difficult yards that did not show up in the stat sheet. There was still no denying, though, that he was not as explosive as the year went along. Yet, the Jets gave him and Shonn Greene a similar number of carries. Early in the year, Tomlinson was fresh. The Jets rode him. He seemed to wear down.
He got Week 17 off and then ran for over 5 yards a carry against the Colts in the Playoffs. He was over 4 a week later against the Patriots. Then against the Steelers, he was under 2. Once again, he tired. The improved run defenses each week played a role, but the theme remained consistent.
The Jets need to incorporate Joe McKnight more into the running game. LT's carries need to be reduced so he can stay fresh and go all out on each play instead of conserving energy. Gang Green wanted to make him a co-starter with Greene. The 32 year old can still play but will only be successful if fresh.