The Pittsburgh Steelers are constantly under the microscope due to poor offensive performances. It’s what made a 30-27 victory against the Bengals so sweet. Mike McCarthy’s offense erupted for 411 total yards. Luckily, a healthy contribution from Jaylen Warren led Pittsburgh to the finish line.
And I expect the determined tailback to be a catalyst for production Thursday night against the Cleveland Browns.
I mean, why wouldn’t he? Especially after an impressive performance. In Week 3, Warren accounted for 127 rushing yards on 17 carries. His elusiveness created explosive plays for McCarthy’s offense. The undrafted free agent also recorded 49 yards on three receptions. The contributions kept Cincinnati’s defenders on their toes and served as a simple reminder that Pittsburgh didn’t need another playmaker in the backfield.
Shared backfields have become the NFL norm. Yes, they can keep players fresh. But it could also limit production. In Week 1, Rico Dowdle (39) received more snaps than Jaylen Warren (25). Still, only 58 rushing yards were accounted for.
A toe injury sidelined Dowdle during a Week 2 matchup against New England. Instead of panicking, Mike McCarthy explored solutions. It led to Warren finishing the afternoon with 43 rushing yards on 11 carries. Little did we know it would be the appetizer for a breakout performance.
All Warren needed was more reps.
The Pittsburgh Steelers can lean on Jaylen Warren against a struggling Cleveland Browns run defense
Feeding the fifth-year running back shouldn’t be a tall task for Pittsburgh Thursday evening. Especially against a struggling defense. According to Sumer Sports ($), the Browns rank 24th in rushing success rate allowed against the run and are tied for second in runs over 10 yards allowed, with 13.
They could reap bountiful results if they bring their work pails.
A successful night rushing the football will do more for Pittsburgh than keep Warren on a hot streak. It could also create opportunities for Aaron Rodgers to catch the defense sleeping. Last week, the 42-year-old gunslinger threw for a season-high in passing yards (292) and touchdowns (three). Play action and quick passes were easy to complete thanks to Warren’s contributions between the tackles.
Imagine how much of an impact Warren would make against a Browns defense already struggling against determined rushers? It seems Thursday will be a match made in heaven.
The Pittsburgh Steelers offense is focused on improving each week. Improvements against Cincinnati led to promising results. McCarthy’s unit can stack another win with an impressive rushing performance. Jaylen Warren proved he is Pittsburgh’s bell cow and should be treated as such in Week 4.
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