Dunn uses breakout game to move closer to 10,000 career yards

FLOWERY BRANCH - Before breaking out with his first 100-yard rushing game in more than a year last week, Warrick Dunn appeared on the verge of yielding first-string honors in Atlanta to Jerious Norwood.

Instead, Dunn solidified his starting status with 27 carries for 100 yards in a win over San Francisco. He also moved closer to 10,000 yards for his career.

Dunn didn't have to be reminded today of his career total.

He says he's 147 yards away.

But he says what's important now is winning.

Before leading the Falcons to the 20-to-16 win over the 49ers, Dunn's production had been on a dramatic decline.

His previous season-high was only 62 yards against Houston on September 30th, and in his last three games he rushed for 27, 15 and 28 yards.

The 32-year-old veteran had not rushed for 100 yards in a game since October 15th, 2006, and many were calling for Norwood, a second-year back with breakaway speed, to take the lead role.

Dunn's breakout came even before Norwood tweaked his right ankle early and left for good in the third quarter.

Dunn had 65 yards rushing in the first half, including a 9-yard touchdown run when he was stopped at the line before spinning out and running left for open space.