| NFL: Bell Gets Ringing Endorsement in NO | ||||
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Saints head coach Sean Payton stated that he'll be employing a three-back committee at running back this season. Pierre Thomas and Reggie Bush were obviously in the mix, but Mike Bell's preseason performance has earned him a spot in the rotation. The Skinny: This had to happen. Both because the well-traveled Bell has been more than impressive thus far and because Bush and Thomas are already banged up. Depth at running back is essential, something playoff teams like the Giants and Ravens have realized for a while and teams like the Saints haven't (Aaron Stecker isn't a legit fill-in) until now, when they've been forced to do so. Bell was woefully out of shape as a Bronco, but at least he admits it and has gotten his act together. Bell has run through tackles in the preseason and if he manages to stay healthy, he could actually lead the team in rushing. Reggie Bush is best used as a receiver and occasional runner, when he's able to play. Pierre Thomas is a solid back, and I happen to rate him highly...but he's unproven, with only 129 carries last season and 625 yards. Bell had a similar season a few years ago with the Broncos, and after being humbled by his releases by Denver and Houston, he knows this is most likely his last shot. New Orleans has themselves a pair of hungry backs--not a bad thing at all.
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