Has the NFL evolved to a pass-happy league because of fantasy football?

Rule changes have helped the offense — not the defense. Six of the eight 5,000-yard passing seasons (three by New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees alone!) in league history have occurred in just the last three seasons. And parity has continued to rule as more and more games seem to come down to a late possession. Yes, the NFL has evolved from "three yards and a cloud of dust" to airing it out with regularity. Has that philosophical shift been prompted by the popularity of fantasy football?

Yahoo Sports asked Indianapolis Colts quarterback Andrew Luck if there's a correlation between fantasy's growing status and the league becoming pass-happy.

"So many games do come down to 2-minute drives at the end and no-huddle offenses. More often than not, you see a no-huddle offense that's more wide receivers than tight ends and running backs. Not to say you can't run the ball out of those sets. But it seems like (with) no-huddle offenses, you do end up throwing the ball a little more so maybe those 2-minute drive, no-huddle sets are creating that," said Luck, who pointed out the last two Super Bowl champions (the Seahawks and Ravens) had solid running games. The two-time Pro Bowler added, "I think the running game may be devalued in the eyes of some fans but I know, as a player, it's so important to run the ball."

When asked to predict a breakout fantasy player for 2014, Luck picked new teammate and Super Bowl XLVI champion wide receiver Hakeem Nicks.

The Colts quarterback is also participating in a program from Quaker Oats called QuakerMakeThePlay.com. Participating families have the chance to win a grand prize “Day of Play” (three hours with Luck in their hometown), plus daily giveaways for a $50 NFLShop.com gift card.
 
“I’m excited to continue my work with Quaker,” said Andrew Luck. “Whether I’m on or off the field, I know the importance of getting enough sleep, and starting the day with a wholesome breakfast like oatmeal made with milk and fruit. While I’m lucky enough to have my day job keep me active, I have some great memories of playing made up backyard games with my siblings. Many of them would have been awesome submissions for the ‘Make the Play’ contest!”