Mike Tomlin Excited About Steelers Ground Game Heading Into 2014

Oct 27, 2013; Oakland, CA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin on the sideline against the Oakland Raiders during the third quarter at O.co Coliseum. The Oakland Raiders defeated the Pittsburgh Steelers 21-18. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports

Pittsburgh Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin expressed his excitement on the NFL Network recently when he talked about the Steelers running game heading into training camp.

The black and gold added Mike Munchak to coach the offensive line, as well as former New England Patriot LeGarrette Blount and Dri Archer via the draft to back up sophomore starter Le’Veon Bell.

With training camp just two weeks away, the Steelers coach shared his thoughts on some of the team’s off-season acquisitions.

(On Mike Munchak)

“Mike is a football lover and he can’t hide it,” said Tomlin. “He has a great deal of passion for football and o-line play and is great at relating his passion to the guys … we look forward to him continuing to put his imprint on this group.”

(On LeGarrette Blount)

“Blount has a definite football-playing personality, one that is not only evident in the field, but in the locker-room,” Tomlin said. “I think he’s going to be a positive contributor to our efforts.”

(On Dri Archer)

“Dri is a speed guy that is not only going to play running back, but wide receiver,” said Tomlin. “We are going work to get the ball in his hands in space.”

Tomlin does not see ball distribution being an issue amongst his stable of backs. The head coach is entering training camp with an open mind and no preconceived notions for how Bell, Blount and Archer will share carries heading into the season.

“I’m excited about letting these guys sort themselves out from a division of labour standpoint,” Tomlin said. “I know that they are all committed to being significant components to what we do.”

How do you feel, Steeler Nation? Do you share Tomlin’s optimism for an improved rushing attack in 2014, or are you taking a wait-and-see approach for a ground game that ranked just 27th and 26th in the league the last two seasons?