It’s clear the Seattle Seahawks have not utilized 2018 first round draft pick Rashaad Penny nearly as often as expected.
Penny was a monster at San Diego State, and was selected with the intention that he would either become the full-fledged starter in Seattle, or would at least form a formidable running back tandem alongside Chris Carson.
Instead, Carson has retained his status as the team’s bell-cow, while Penny has been relegated to straight backup duty, only handling the ball six times in his last two games combined.
While the team is down on Penny’s performance as of late – he was benched after fumbling against San Francisco and never returned – there is still hope that he will get more involved down the stretch, and that he will play well.
“For us to go where we want to go, I think Rashaad will help us win games and he’s chomping at the bit,” offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer commented on Thursday. “We just don’t ever plan exactly how it’s going to play out. Chris [Carson] has been playing so good right now but, when Rashaad get his chances, I think he’ll play well.”
Penny has just 36 rushing attempts on the season (about five per game) and has rushed for 167 yards and a touchdown, while also hauling in three receptions for 34 yards.
Those numbers pale in comparison to what Carson has done, and even with the fumbling issue it is clear he is – and should be – the preferred option in Seattle.
“We’re really pleased with what Chris is doing,” Schottenheimer continued. “He’s playing really, really well. You guys know the way we are, and the way we want to get multiple backs involved.”
The Seahawks are set to take on the Eagles in Philadelphia on Sunday morning, and all signs point once again to Carson handling the vast majority of duty in the backfield.
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