The nfl rushing record single-game represents one of football’s most thrilling accomplishments. This record captures the peak of a running back’s power, speed, and endurance. Fans across the country remember the excitement of witnessing a historic performance on the field.
The Historic Day That Changed Everything
On November 4, 2007, rookie running back Adrian Peterson etched his name in history. He ran for a jaw-dropping 296 yards against the San Diego Chargers. He carried the ball 30 times, averaging almost 10 yards each rush. Peterson added three touchdowns to seal his epic day. His performance became the benchmark for all who dream of breaking the nfl rushing record single-game.
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Other Top Performances That Came Close
Though Peterson’s 296 yards remain at the top, other players have come remarkably close. Here’s a look at the top five single-game rushing performances:
| Rank | Player | Yards | Date | Opponent |
| 1 | Adrian Peterson | 296 | Nov 4, 2007 | San Diego Chargers |
| 2 | Jamal Lewis | 295 | Sept 14, 2003 | Cleveland Browns |
| 3 | Jerome Harrison | 286 | Dec 20, 2009 | Kansas City Chiefs |
| 4 | Corey Dillon | 278 | Oct 22, 2000 | Denver Broncos |
| 5 | Walter Payton | 275 | Nov 20, 1977 | Minnesota Vikings |
These great games each hold a special place in the NFL’s history. Yet none managed to surpass Peterson’s incredible 296-yard milestone.
How Peterson Achieved the Record
Peterson’s record-setting game wasn’t just about one big run. He gained 253 yards in the second half alone, showing endurance and skill that left fans amazed. His offensive line created gaps, but it was his vision and determination that turned each carry into something special. The nfl rushing record single-game stands because of that rare combination of teamwork and individual brilliance.
Jamal Lewis’ Near Record
Before Peterson, Jamal Lewis was the man to beat. In 2003, he ran for 295 yards against the Cleveland Browns. His record stood for four years before Peterson surpassed it by just one yard. Lewis’ game remains the second-highest in history and a reminder of how thin the line is between second-best and first.
The Effort of Jerome Harrison
Another notable performance came from Jerome Harrison in 2009. He tallied 286 yards against the Kansas City Chiefs. While he didn’t top Peterson, his effort put him among the game’s elite. Fans still remember that cold December day when he burst through the line for big gains again and again.
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Modern Running Backs Eyeing the Record
Today, players like Derrick Henry and Saquon Barkley have shown flashes of greatness. Barkley reached 255 yards in one game, landing him ninth on the all-time list. Henry’s power and speed have also put him in the conversation. But so far, no one has matched or broken the 296-yard record set by Peterson.
Why It’s So Difficult to Break the Record
The nfl rushing record single-game is so hard to beat because it requires a perfect storm. The offensive line must dominate. The defense must struggle to adapt. And the running back must stay healthy and fresh all game long. That’s why these record games are so rare and exciting.
Playoff Records vs. Regular Season
The nfl rushing record single-game applies only to regular-season games. Playoff performances have their own separate records. For example, some backs have run for over 200 yards in playoff games, but those don’t count toward this specific record. That distinction keeps the 296-yard mark as the top achievement in the regular season.
Why Fans Love This Record
Fans are drawn to the nfl rushing record single-game because it’s a display of pure physical dominance. It’s about more than just winning the game—it’s about rewriting what’s possible. The excitement of watching a player run through defenses for hour after hour captures the spirit of football.
Could Anyone Ever Reach 300 Yards?
Many fans wonder if we’ll ever see someone run for 300 yards in a single game. Analysts say it would take an even better day than what Peterson had. A player would need to average at least 10 yards per carry on 30 rushes or 12 yards on 25. That requires speed, vision, and the right conditions—a combination that doesn’t happen often.
The Impact on Peterson’s Career
Peterson’s record wasn’t just a single-game fluke. It showed the world what he could do. He went on to win Offensive Rookie of the Year and rushed for over 14,900 career yards. His 296-yard game remains the highlight of his incredible journey through the league.
The Importance of the Offensive Line
No rushing record is possible without the offensive line. In Peterson’s game, the linemen opened gaps that he turned into long gains. Their blocking and effort made the 296-yard game possible. This teamwork is a key reason why such records are so rare—everything must go perfectly.
Comparing Old vs. Modern NFL
In the past, teams ran the ball much more. Legends like Walter Payton and O.J. Simpson had huge games when defenses expected it. Today’s NFL favors passing, making it even harder for running backs to reach such heights. That’s why the nfl rushing record single-game stands tall—breaking it now would be even more impressive.
The Role of the Coach
Coaching also matters. In Peterson’s game, coaches recognized that the run was working and kept feeding him the ball. Consistent carries allow a back to build momentum and tire out defenders. The record wouldn’t have been possible if the coaches hadn’t trusted the ground game.
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Records Bring Hope for the Future
Every year, a new rookie or young star hopes to break the record. Each game with a 200-yard performance creates buzz. Fans sit at home, watching highlights, wondering if this is the day someone reaches 300 yards. It’s what makes the nfl rushing record single-game so legendary—it’s a dream that lives on for every player and fan.
The Numbers Behind the Record
The record wasn’t just about the yards. It also included three touchdowns and an average of nearly 10 yards per rush. This kind of performance requires not just one long run but consistency throughout the game. Each carry must wear down the defense a little more until the record becomes possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current NFL rushing record single-game?
The current nfl rushing record single-game is held by Adrian Peterson, who ran for 296 yards in 2007.
Who held the NFL rushing record single-game before Adrian Peterson?
Before Peterson, Jamal Lewis held the record with 295 yards in a 2003 game against the Cleveland Browns.
How close has anyone come to breaking the 296-yard mark?
Jerome Harrison reached 286 yards in 2009, making it the closest performance since Peterson’s record-setting run.
Has anyone ever reached 300 yards in a game?
No player has reached 300 rushing yards in a single game. Peterson’s 296-yard record remains the highest in NFL history.
Conclusion
The nfl rushing record single-game is more than a number—it’s a symbol of greatness. Adrian Peterson’s 296-yard day in 2007 showed what happens when preparation, teamwork, and talent align perfectly. Since then, no player has come close to 300 yards, proving just how special that day was.
When we watch today’s running backs burst through holes and turn short gains into long ones, we remember that record. It lives in every highlight and every big game. Maybe someday a new star will break 296 yards. But until then, Peterson’s record stands as the ultimate example of what a running back can achieve when everything goes perfectly.
The nfl rushing record single-game remains a thrilling milestone. It’s a reminder of the power of one game to create history, inspire fans, and set the bar for generations to come.