3 reasons Steelers should make Anthony McFarland their starting running back

Anthony McFarland needs more opportunity

In his first career NFL action, Anthony McFarland broke free for a 20-yard gain on a run to the outside against the Houston Texans. He showed elusiveness and burst that allowed him to rush for 7.0 yards per carry on 6 attempts. However, despite some impressive runs, McFarland has gone back to a reserve role for Pittsburgh and has been third in line for carries.

It’s true that the rookie running back hasn’t done much with his touches in recent weeks. McFarland hasn’t earned more than 7 rushing yards in a contest since Week 3. However, this is largely due to the fact that he hasn’t been entrusted with more than three carries in a single game since his first action.

With the Steelers trying and failing to run the outside zone over the past few weeks, they could really use a running back with some burst. McFarland’s 4.4 speed would be a welcome addition to a relatively slow backfield and it would allow more big-play opportunities for Pittsburgh this year. Given a full game sample size,. McFarland could prove his worth to this organization and give the coaching staff enough reason to believe he can be trusted this year.