Chris Johnson Says He’ll Beat Adrian Peterson in 2013

Dec 30, 2012; Nashville, TN, USA; Tennessee Titans running back Chris Johnson (28) during warm up prior to the game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at LP Field. Mandatory Credit: Jim Brown-USA TODAY Sports

Chris Johnson was a guest on ESPN’s “NFL Live” Wednesday and of course the question came up about whether Johnson or Adrian Peterson would have more rushing yards in 2013. And of course, CJ answered “2k.”

"“I’ve always been a confident guy … if you want something to happen you have to speak on it, you have to believe in it. You just got to pray and God will lead you there. I know the type of guy that I am, the type of back that I am and if the situation is right I know I can do it,” he said."

It’s not at all surprising to hear CJ say that. He says it every year, but it’s good to see that he keeps his head up and sets goals like that for himself every year. We don’t always see it on the field, but CJ is a big leader and motivator for this team in the locker room. People look to how hard he works during practices and the fact that he doesn’t give up on plays.

Dec 30, 2012; Nashville, TN, USA; Tennessee Titans running back Chris Johnson (28) celebrates in the end zone after scoring a touchdown against the Jacksonville Jaguars during the first half at LP Field. The Titans beat the Jaguars 38-20. Mandatory credit: Don McPeak-USA TODAY Sports

You don’t hear teammates complaining about Johnson slacking off or not working hard to earn his contract extension. He may not have the big voice in the room like Ray Lewis or the likes, but he has the heart and dedication.

Also, who doesn’t want to see CJ beat Peterson every year? They seem to be forever pitted against each other as two of the best running backs in the league, or better yet, to have ever played the game. Peterson got it done in remarkable fashion in 2012. Johnson is hoping the Titans soon-to-be revamped line helps him return to form, and obviously, be the best of the best.

We shall see. I’d settle for 1.5k and the playoffs.

You can find me on Twitter @JustinLStewart