We’re here in Cleveland, I’m writing at the hotel. I’m just staying in my playbook right now and getting ready for tongiht.

The backs have had a rough stretch the past couple of days.

First the showing against Miami was inexcusable. The effort was definitely there, we just didn’t get it done.

Then a couple days later we lose both Andre Hall and Mike Pittman. ‘Dre’s been here for a year and Pittman coming in with his experience, being a veteran in the game — it’s definitely been a huge blow to us, losing two backs in the same day and also in a short week. It puts a lot of pressure on the backs, but we’ve been coached up and we’re prepared for the game. We’ve just got to handle adversity.

The rest of the backs are rallying around the situation. Guys have to step up, make big plays and win the game. I’m most definitely ready to be one of those guys. I’ve been waiting for a long time. I feel like I can be a huge contributer to this offense and get this win.

I got my first action in the NFL last week and it was awesome — the outcome wasn’t what we wanted, but I felt like I was ready. I don’t feel like the speed was different because I have been going through practice. I went through training camp and I caught up during the OTAs. It was great being out there. Like everybody says, I got my feet wet a little bit. I just have to stay focused and stay ready for when Coach calls my number.

I have felt a little bit of, I don’t want to say pressure, but it was tough when I found out ‘Dre and Mike were out. But I can’t play like a rookie. I’ve got to play like a veteran, know how to handle adversity and get it done. Like I told you all before, I’ve been preparing all along so that I’m a veteran when I got back from my injury, and I’ve got to prove it on the field.

I think I can carry the load. I got back healthy with rehab and treatment and stayed up with my conditioning, so however many times they want to give me the ball I can handle it.

The backs aren’t proud of last week, but we’ve got a chance to re-energize the running game today. Hard work pays off. We just have to stay focused and good things will come.

Tags: Andre Hall, Handling the Load, Michael Pittman, On the Field, Week 10

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