Greatest NFL Running Backs of All Time
Emmitt Smith or Eric Dickerson
Pick Your Favorite
VS
Your GOAT List
Why This Battle Matters
What happens when you pit the elegant, gazelle-like strides of Eric Dickerson against the relentless, bulldozing force of Emmitt Smith? It's not just a battle of statistics; it's a clash of football philosophies. Dickerson, with his record-shattering 1984 season, epitomizes the pure rusher, a man who could seemingly gallop endlessly downfield. Smith, on the other hand, speaks to durability and consistency, his records a testament to an unyielding presence in the backfield. This GoatWars showdown isn't just about who was better. It's an existential debate over the soul of the gridiron — is the pinnacle of running back greatness about dazzling peaks or sustained excellence? Your choice cuts deeper than just a preference; it's about what defines football greatness in your heart.
🔥 Fan Takes
How Fans Are Voting
In this battle:
Fans currently prefer Emmitt Smith over Eric Dickerson when it comes to the greatest NFL Running Backs of all time. In head-to-head matchups, fans pick Emmitt Smith 85.2% of the time over Eric Dickerson.
Across all battles:
Emmitt Smith win rate: 59.3%
Eric Dickerson win rate: 27.5%
Fan FAQs
Who's the #1 contender on GoatWars in the Greatest NFL Running Backs of All Time league?
Barry Sanders currently holds the top spot in the Greatest NFL Running Backs of All Time league. Check him out on the GOAT List.
What makes Eric Dickerson stand out among NFL running backs?
Fans adore Eric Dickerson for his electrifying style and the way he shattered records right from his rookie season. His smooth, upright running style and record-setting 2,105 rushing yards in a single season left a lasting impression that still resonates with fans.
Why is Emmitt Smith winning by so much in the match-up against Eric Dickerson?
Emmitt Smith's lead is huge primarily because of his record-breaking legacy and his role with the Dallas Cowboys during their dominant years in the '90s. Fans remember his reliability and how he helped his team clinch three Super Bowl titles, making him a favorite in fan votes.