By Matt Papiernik, @Matt_Papiernik on Twitter
SteelerNation.com
Over the past seven seasons, there has always been a clear lead back in the Pittsburgh Steelers backfield at the beginning of the season. Well, besides Le'Veon Bell's holdout season, but we won't talk about that one.
This year, the situation has been muddied. With a combination of James Conner's injuries and the Steelers investing a pair of fourth round draft picks in the running back position in the last two drafts, fans are wondering who will be the lead guy, or if there will be a committee.
That question was cleared up a bit by Head Coach Mike Tomlin recently. Tomlin said:
"That being said, there is no question about who our bell cow is. Our bell cow is James Conner and he is our primary ball totter."
Definitely encouraging words to hear for the Conner fans out there, as the team and coaching staff appear to have full support for the fourth year vet.
Now, just because Conner appears to be the unquestioned bell cow to start the season, doesn't mean other running backs won't see the field and get their opportunities. Tomlin preceded the previous statement by saying:
"We're going to discover that week in and week out in terms of what gives us the very best chance to win each and every game. We have players with unique and different talents, particularly at that potion. We are not opposed to utilizing all of those talents."
While Conner definitely is capable of carrying the load and being a three down back, Anthony McFarland's speed and Benny Snell's power are definitely something that deserve to see the field. Not only do they have something to bring to the table talent wise, keeping Conner fresh and healthy is something I am sure the Steelers are focusing on.
Even with a lot of questions surrounding the Steelers offense, it seems clear that the Steelers still prefer to have a lead back who they lean on, and they believe Conner is that guy.
Let us know below what you think about Conner's ability to be a true bell cow for the Steelers!
#SteelerNation
