Rookie Mark Ingram was given many chances early in 2011. While he led the team in rushing yards in eight of the first 12 games, he also received more carries than Thomas in all eight of those contests. However, Thomas ended the year with better numbers, despite being given fewer rushing attempts.

Thomas averaged 5.1 yards per carry, more than a yard better than Ingram's 3.9 average. Of course, Thomas also excels in the Saints' passing game. In 2011, Thomas caught 50 passes for another 425 yards. By comparison, Ingram had only 11 receptions and 46 receiving yards.

Darren Sproles led the team with 603 rushing yards while rushing only 87 times, maintaining an average of 6.9 yards per carry. However, Sproles' attempts will always be limited, and he likely could not be a featured back who carries the ball twenty times a game. On the other hand, Christopher Ivory does have feature-back potential and has done well in his brief career when given a chance. He will first have to remain healthy and find a way to crack into the rotation of a crowded and talented backfield.