NFL rookie running backs make impact

NEW YORK, Sept. 17 (UPI) -- Rookie running backs have rushed for the most yards in two weeks since 1979 season, led by the Chicago Bears' Matt Forte with 215 yards in 46 attempts.

The rookies have gained 1,197 rush yards on 257 rush attempts, the highest-number of carries through the first two games since the 1993 season (262 attempts).

NFL Network analyst Terrell Davis, the career rushing leader for the Denver Broncos, says the first-year running backs have made their marks by running "downhill," and not "sideways."

"They want to go to the end zone," Davis said. "They let their eyes see certain things, watch their blocks come down, play with the linebackers and make them over-read the play."

Oakland's Darren McFadden is the league's second leading ground gainer through two games with 210 yards in 30 carries, followed by Tennessee's Chris Johnson (202 yards, 34 carries); and Carolina's Jonathan Stewart (130 yards, 24 carries).