Rushing Game a Key in Expected Smash Mouth Affair
Old school football the expectation
“It’s a physical game. If you like football, that’s what you should be about. I’m about that, and I’m ready to get after it.”
DeMeco Ryans called it as he saw it. No surprise from the former linebacker who probably hasn’t gone more than a couple of trips to the podium before he talks about the physicality of what he expects.
Both teams recognize that the opposing defense presents a challenge. Each team will need to run the ball well. Easier said than done.
The Texans haven’t been good this season at moving the ball on the ground. The team’s yards per carry is 29th in the NFL, averaging less than four yards per carry. Woody Marks has had some nice games down the stretch. Marks credited his patience for his late-season improvement.
“I feel like he’s gotten better with the more reps that he’s getting in,” Ryans said about his rookie running back. “In game, I feel like Woody, he does a better job the more times he touches the football. He’s always going forward, always gaining positive yards, and that patience comes with setting up your blocks. You have to do a good job setting up your blocks to put you in position to make guys miss at certain times, and Woody has done a good job of that.”
The offensive line has settled in these past few weeks. The Steelers have some bad rushing days on the resume of their defense. Houston, though, seemingly will only have Marks to rely on for this game. Jawhar Jordan hurt his ankle and seems unlikely to play. Nick Chubb was a healthy scratch. Leaning on one running back isn’t ideal.
It isn’t a problem for Pittsburgh.
