4 biggest causes for concern for Steelers vs. Eagles week 5

Messing up the RBs

One of the biggest positives of the Steelers week three win over the Texans was their usage at RB. While Conner toted the ball the most as the prototypical “bell cow”, the team helped divide up his workload to keep him fresh. Anthony McFarland say a lot of burn early in the second half and was relied on as the main runner for the first few plays. As well, Benny Snell saw the field for short-yardage work, not gaining the yards per se but getting some needed first downs.

Going into this week, the Steelers need to employ a similar approach to their runners as they did against the Texans. Let Conner handle the early duties, McFarland handle 5-8 change of pace carries, and have Snell do the dirty work for short yardage. Assuming the Steelers get a lead, transition Conner out of the game and let Snell serve as the finisher. No matter what, the team must use a healthy mix at the RB position.

Conner is the most talented back, but his workload needs to be monitored. If the Steelers can get a full season out of him even in a monitored capacity, the team will be all the better for it. As well, mixing in McFarland and Snell will give the Steelers a look at what 2021 could be assuming Conner leaves. This group has talent, and it is high time the team utilizes it properly.

As evident by the concerns all being about the Steelers, this should be an easy win this week. The only way a loss will likely occur is if the Steelers get in their own way. Keep these concerns in mind, and hopefully, none of them will show up come Sunday.