The Steelers defense is going to have its hands full with New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley. And Mike Tomlin’s team is on high alert.
Monday will be the Steelers’ first time taking on the Giants since 2016. Since Pittsburgh has not yet had to face the wrath of Barkley, Tomlin spent plenty of time over the summer studying and appreciating the running back’s game tape.
“I had a great deal of respect for him when he came out of Penn State, being a regional guy, but hadn’t seen a lot of him since he’s been in the league and an NFC guy,” Tomlin said in his weekly press conference.
Tomlin described just how many ways Barkley is capable of challenging the Steelers.
“He’s got the quicks and the vision to be a quality interior runner and the power, also, to be a quality interior runner,” said Tomlin. “He’s got burst and acceleration and top-end speed that allows him to excel on the perimeter game and in open grass. Five to 10-yard runs can quickly become 50- and 60-yard runs when you’re facing a guy with the talent of Saquon.”
Not only is Barkley a threat on the ground, but he’s a phenomenal pass-catcher, as well. In two seasons, he’s scorched defenders for 2,310 yards rushing, 1,159 yards receiving and 23 total touchdowns.
“We are going to spend a lot of time preparing to minimize his impact,” Tomlin added.
Please do, coach.
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