Batch Ready If Backfield Can't Recuperate
PITTSBURGH (93-7 THE FAN) -- Baron Batch's NFL career began with an injury, which, in and of itself, seems to make him a perfect fit for the Steelers' running game these days. But even as the Steelers struggle to stay healthy, and, for that matter, stay in the playoff hunt, he doesn't feel his job has changed.
"It's just about getting better, and eliminating mistakes I've been making...fundamental stuff," Batch said after practice on the South Side Monday. "I prepare every day like I'm going to play anyway."
Batch ran ten times for 22 yards and his first professional touchdown in a 26-23 loss at Tennessee last Thursday. The Steelers rank 31st in the NFL, just ahead of the Titans, in average rushing yards per game.
Head coach Mike Tomlin will, presumably, shine more light on the Steelers' banged-up backfield when he addresses the media Tuesday afternoon, though Jason La Canfora of CBS Sports reported earlier today Rashard Mendenhall, who re-aggravated his Achilles in that Week 6 game, at least has a good chance to play in Week 7.
With Mendenhall on the mend, and Isaac Redman also recovering from taking a helmet to the knee last Thursday, does mean the rookie Batch becomes the de facto featured back?
"You'd have to ask Coach. I don't know. I wouldn't call myself the man. We had a long weekend, I'm sure they're going to be ready to go. I'm just going to play my role," he said.
Batch talked more with 93.7 The Fan about the Steelers' bad start, and what he personally takes from their last game:
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The Steelers (2-3) visit the Cincinnati Bengals (3-3) this Sunday night at 8:20.
