‘It’s an honor’: John Harbaugh sends a stunning message as he shares an honest verdict amid yearly battles with Mike Tomlin…

In a game where Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren became the fourth duo of Pittsburgh Steelers running backs to surpass 1,000 yards from scrimmage in a season, their collective performance reached new heights. The recent victory against the Seattle Seahawks marked a turning point for the duo, as they combined for an impressive three touchdowns in a single game for the first time in their 31-game history together. The running back pair also recorded over 220 yards from scrimmage at Luman Field, showcasing their most productive game to date.

Remarkably, the highest combined yards from scrimmage (221) in Harris and Warren’s shared career occurred during a late-season January game against the Baltimore Ravens. Now, with an upcoming late-season January game at the Ravens, the Steelers prepare for a rematch against a familiar opponent.

Harris acknowledges the Steelers’ reliance on the running game, emphasizing its identity and the likelihood of the Ravens anticipating a heavy run strategy. Despite this predictability, Harris stresses the need to capitalize on the situation, recognizing the challenge posed by an opponent aware of their game plan.

The resurgence of the Steelers’ overall offense coincides with Mason Rudolph taking over as quarterback in recent weeks. While an effective running game has been a key factor, it has been a consistent strength since approximately the midway point of the season. Since Week 10, the Steelers have averaged 144.1 rushing yards per game and 4.6 yards per carry, figures that would rank among the top in the league over a full season.

Harris attributes this resurgence to the team’s mindset and self-assurance. The transformation is notable considering their struggle in the early part of the season, averaging just 3.4 yards per carry and 79.7 yards per game over the first seven games — figures that would have ranked last in the league over a full season.

The Steelers’ running game thrives on the effective and balanced duo of Warren and Harris. Against the Seahawks, Warren played 39 of the Steelers’ 72 offensive snaps (54%), and Harris played 38 snaps (52%), showcasing their compatibility on the field. Harris, with 27 touches, gained 122 yards with two touchdowns, while Warren contributed 98 yards from scrimmage and an 18-yard touchdown run.

In the game against the Cincinnati Bengals, Warren slightly out-snapped Harris, emphasizing the interchangeable nature of their roles. Both Warren and Harris have surpassed 1,000 scrimmage yards this season, joining an elite group of Steelers running back pairs who achieved the same feat in previous seasons.

Despite their physical differences, with Warren at 5-foot-8, 215 pounds, and Harris at 6-1, 242 pounds, the duo’s success stems from their selflessness and shared goal of winning. Harris, a first-round pick in 2021, and Warren, an undrafted free agent a year later, complement each other well on the field.

Interim offensive coordinator Eddie Faulkner praises the duo’s selfless attitude and highlights their distinct playing styles that complement each other. As the Steelers prepare for the late-season clash against the Ravens, the dynamic running back duo of Harris and Warren remains a vital asset, showcasing resilience, adaptability, and a shared commitment to success.