The Pittsburgh Steelers are gearing up for another shot at the playoffs, and the offense will once again be their biggest question mark. While the quarterback play will be important, Pittsburgh\u2019s biggest X-factor will be its running game.<\/p>\n
Jaylen Warren<\/a> and the newly signed Rico Dowdle<\/a> are coming off productive years and are now poised to thrive in Mike McCarthy\u2019s offense. The big question will be who replaces Gainwell\u2019s receiving load from the backfield. The answer is most likely Warren, as he averaged more than eight yards per catch and is one of the league\u2019s best pass-blocking backs. However, both Warren and Dowdle are capable receivers. The Steelers won\u2019t have to worry as much about exactly who is in the backfield when planning personnel packages.<\/p>\n Both Running Backs Are Bruisers The combination of a traditional pound-the-rock back familiar with the new coach\u2019s scheme and a short, strong pinball that maneuvers well in open field creates a winning recipe for any offense.<\/p>\n
\nWarren and Dowdle Delivered in Crowded Rooms
\nNeither Warren nor Dowdle played in one-man backfields last season. Warren formed a tandem with team MVP Kenneth Gainwell<\/a>, while Dowdle joined the Panthers as a backup to Chuba Hubbard<\/a>, eventually taking over the starting job after massive performances while Hubbard nursed a leg injury. Despite this, both players produced more than 1,250 scrimmage yards for their teams.<\/p>\n
\nEven at different heights, both Warren and Dowdle are thumpers on the field. Each player<\/a> had an explosive rate of over 7.50% and more than 600 yards after contact. These numbers contextualize the physicality that will allow Warren and Dowdle to wear defenses down. With the coaching staff committed to a \u201cthunder and lightning\u201d<\/a> approach, the duo will get to do that while staying fresh.
\n\u201cThese guys can play all three downs, and that\u2019s important,\u201d McCarthy said<\/a> to SteelersNow beat reporter Alan Saunders during the league meetings at Phoenix, AZ, this past March.<\/p>\n