Replacing Bettis

by Chris Bibey
2006-07-31

One thing that a lot of NFL fans are overlooking is the Steelers running game. Was Jerome Bettis a huge contributor for the Steelers last year? The answer to that question is quite simple, no. But at the same time he did have his moments and was a great third down back. In addition, he was always called on in goal line situations, and very rarely missed out on these opportunities.

So with that being said, the Steelers are going to need to find somebody to fill in for him in 2006. Most people feel that Duce Staley will be able to fill in for Bettis without much trouble at all. But if you have been following Staley for the past couple seasons you may not be too convinced. He has been injury prone, and has never really lived up to the big expectations that were placed upon him.

Of course the Steelers will be able to rely on Willie Parker as their starter, but without Bettis he may begin to wear down as the season drags on. If this happens, the Steelers overall running game will be in jeopardy.

At this point head coach Bill Cowher is surely going through all of these scenarios in his mind. Not only does he have to determine who is going to play when, but he must also plan for injury. If Parker gets hurt, the main question will be whether or not Staley can step in and pick up the slack.

If Staley can stay injury free this season, the Steelers may be able to pick up in the running game where they left off. But regardless of who does what, it is going to be difficult to replace Bettis. He is a future hall of famer, and offered leadership and guidance for the team. Without him, things will not be the same for the Steelers regardless of who plays well at the running back position.