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I guess it depends on what you call breakaway speed. IMO, neither Vic or Boobie
had that. Good speed, yes. Breakaway, no. Vic ran a 4.59 at the combine. Dixon ran a 4.67. That's not break away speed IMO but they produced big time for us and in the end that's all that matters. Just for fodder, here's the NFL scouting report on Dixon and Ballard prior to the draft:
Analysis - Dixon
Strengths:
Dixon is a big, bruising running back who was highly productive against premier competition in college. Displays the necessary power to consistently break tackles. Exhibits impressive balance on contact and is rarely brought down by the first tackler. Shows nice foot agility for a big, power back.
Weaknesses
His top end speed to be a threat on the perimeter or explode for long gainers up the middle is dubious. Must improve his ball security as he?s shown he will put the ball on the ground at times. Struggles getting to the outside.
Analysis - Ballard
Strengths
Ballard is a very instinctive runner. He has a natural ability to sift through defenders in the backfield and shows good burst after he's broken through the line. He is a good runner and has deceptive juke moves that he will use on bigger players. Ballard carries the ball high and tight and is conscious of oncoming traffic, making him dependable inside. He is a big body, willing to block oncoming linebackers in pass protection. He also understands how to work upfield for the first down after catching the ball, making him a good check-down option in the pass game. Ballard is a willing special-teams player who seeks contact and likes to fly around.
Weaknesses
Ballard is not what one would call a quick-twitch athlete. He is big but doesn't run with a ton of power; bigger linebackers often bring him down on first contact. He is instinctive inside and while carrying the ball in the flats, but he is not fast enough to get to the edge on his own. He is natural between the tackles but can look like a deer in headlights in the open field.
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