James Conner re-established as Steelers’ ‘bell cow’ amid Benny Snell struggles in win

For the first time since he became the Pittsburgh Steelers’ featured running back more than two years ago, James Conner over the past week was openly questioned for his deservedness for that role.

One-hundred-six yards and a touchdown later, Conner re-established himself as the Steelers’ “bell cow” in Sunday’s 26-21 home-opening victory against the Denver Broncos.

Of course, Conner’s status – when healthy – was greatly aided by a stinker turned in by the man challenging him for his job. Benny Snell netted 1 yard on four touches (three carries, one catch) and , worse, had a costly fumble during the fourth quarter.

Snell had a career-high 113 rushing yards on 19 carries the week before in the season-opening win at the New York Giants after Conner had left that game in the first half because of an ankle injury.

Conner missed practice Wednesday but practiced the next two days and said he felt “good” heading into Sunday’s game. Conner got the start and served as the “bell cow” (coach Mike Tomlin’s term for him before the season began), albeit Snell played the game’s third offensive series and a series each in the third and fourth quarters.

Snell’s fumble was his fourth over his past seven games. Snell has fumbled during four of the past five games he’s played in which he has been on the field for at least 10 offensive snaps.

“I know that I’ve got some concern because we’ve got to maintain possession of the ball, especially in those significant moments,” Tomlin said. “He’s a young guy growing in terms of situational awareness and things like that. It will be a growth experience for him, but we’ve got some work to do there.”

Although Conner’s final stat line appeared strong, it was greatly aided by a 59-yard in the final 2 minutes in which the Broncos were stacking the line of scrimmage in a desperate attempt to get the ball back. Taking away that carry, Conner averaged 3.1 yards on his other 15 rushes.

Most importantly in regards to Conner’s career history, though, is that he finished the game. Conner had either missed entirely (nine times) or in part (eight) 17 of the Steelers’ previous 21 games dating to late 2018.

Conner also had two receptions for 15 yards. The only other running back to play, Jaylen Samuels, had no carries and was targeted only twice. He had just one catch for 4 yards, but it was for a first down on a third-and-3 play.

Rookie running back Anthony McFarland, in uniform for the first time as a pro, did not play on offense or special teams.

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