By Ralph N. Paulk

Published: Saturday, November 3, 2012, 12:01 a.m.
Updated: Saturday, November 3, 2012

Rookie running back Chris Rainey is beginning to settle into the Steelers' offense.

He's carried the ball eight the times the past two games after having only seven the first five games.

“I'm starting to get involved in more plays, so every opportunity I get, I'm going to take it,” he said. “I'll do whatever it takes to help the team win. I'm still working on special teams but just have to be patient. I know I'm not a starter, but I'll do whatever it takes.”

Rainey has averaged 3.9 yards on 15 carries and has eight receptions. He's also averaging 27.2 yards on kickoff returns.

Deceiving numbers

The Giants rank 26th in pass defense, but the Steelers are ignoring the numbers.

“With some groups, the numbers don't lie. But with this group, the numbers do lie,” Steelers receiver Jerricho Cotchery said. “You have to look at the sacks (21) and the turnovers (20). It's tough to get anything done against them. They rise to the challenge in big games like they did against San Francisco.”

Quarterbacks are completing 62 percent of passes and have thrown 11 touchdowns against the Giants' secondary.

1. Steelers might be forced to rely on rookies in 2013
2. Ex-Steelers QB Batch learns new form of 2-minute drill
3. Steelers ink fourth-round pick Thomas to 4-year deal
4. Steelers’ Tomlin keeps expections in check for first-year players
5. Undrafted lineman Embernate hopes he can stick with Steelers
6. Robinson: The good, bad of speaking out in NFL
7. Steelers’ Allen prepares for strong challenge
8. Receiver Wheaton could make biggest splash among Steelers’ rookies
9. Robinson: Steelers’ draft grades well ... for now
10. Steelers’ rookie defensive back Thomas doesn’t lack motivation
11. Starks prepared to part ways with Steelers

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