Lost in the win and the stellar performance of quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, was the play of third down running back Mewelde Moore. Moore led all Steeler running backs with 36 total yards and more importantly produced 3 of the Steelers 19 first downs and the only one the Steelers had all night rushing.
Moore will never lead the league in rushing, never be in the Hall of Fame and never make the Pro Bowl. What he will be though, is always dependable. Head coach Mike Tomlin knew what he was doing when he brought Moore over with him from Minnesota. He knows what he gets with Moore and knows how to get the most out of him. Moore can return kicks if needed and is most dangerous catching the ball out of the backfield. He is not afraid to block or pick up blitzes when called upon.
The shape that the current running game is in, do not be surprised to see even more of Moore. Even on earlier downs. When he is in the game, he garners the respect of defenses because of his pass catching abilities. When he is in the game, the defense can not sit on the run.
So when we talk about the opening night win versus Tennessee, do not forget to talk more about Moore. He is the running back that gave us the most. Hopefully there is Moore to come.
