Steelers' Le'Veon Bell Continues Ascension to Top of NFL's Running Back Ranks

The Pittsburgh Steelers got a resounding 42-21 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday. And they got the victory by playing a very complete game in all three phases. However, the play of running back Le'Veon Bell was once again something remarkable. Bell continues to make the case for being the top running back in the NFL.

Michael Conroy/Associated Press

Pittsburgh's plan of attack was clear from the jump. The Steelers came out and ran the ball 31 times as opposed to throwing it 39 times. Balance was the key, and balance was what won the day. When the Steelers needed to move the ball on the ground, they looked to Bell, and once again he delivered.

However, Bell's game goes well beyond just being a running back. Bell finished the game with 185 yards rushing on 26 carries and two touchdowns. Bell also threw in six receptions for 50 more yards and one score. He is having what could be the greatest statistical season of any Steelers running back, per David Todd of 970 ESPN.

"

Le’Veon Bell now has 1,924 yards from scrimmage. The #Steelers single-season record is 2.034 by Barry Foster in 1992.

— David Todd (@DavidMTodd) December 7, 2014"

Bell's 235-yard performance put him in some rather elite company, as reported by Steelers PR Manager Dom Rinelli in this tweet along with Bell's quote on the accomplishment.

"

Le'Veon Bell: "It's an honor to be mentioned in company of Walter Payton." Only 2 in NFL history w/ 3 cons. 200yd gms pic.twitter.com/LfsiN3OIV4

— Dom Rinelli (@drinelli) December 7, 2014"

It is truly rarefied air to be one of only two running backs to accomplish a feat. It is even more unique when the other running back in the picture is the legendary Walter Payton. During Bell's three-game streak, he has amassed 484 yards on the ground and 227 yards receiving.  

Where does all this put Bell among the elite of NFL running backs this season? At this point, the debate really comes down to two running backs. While there are several NFL runners enjoying great seasons, Bell along with Dallas Cowboys running back DeMarco Murray seem to be the consensus candidates for the best of the bunch.

Both of these backs have had remarkable seasons. Here's how they compare.

Player	Carries	Rushing Yards	Receptions	Receiving Yards	Total Offense	Touchdowns
Bell	242	1,231	71	693	1,924	8
Murray	320	1,606	53	392	1,998	9

Depending on the type of back you favor, a case can be made for either Bell or Murray as the top back in the league. Murray has been more of a workhorse in the ground game but Bell a more complete back in all phases.  

In this age of social media, it is always interesting to see how the masses view this sort of debate. Here's just a sampling of some tweets that came up with a search of Bell and Murray's names. 

"

Le'Veon Bell making a late season case that he's coming after Demarco Murray's top RB spot right now.

— Nicholas Paul (@NickGillick) December 7, 2014"

"

I honestly think Le'Veon Bell is the best running back in the league this year. He's a better all around player than DeMarco Murray.

— Jake Tippie (@TippieJacob) December 7, 2014"

Bell's game is predicated on his tremendous vision and patience. The game really seems to slow down for Bell, and just when you think there's no crease for him, he spots an opening and bursts through the hole.

Michael Conroy/Associated Press

Whereas some backs are impatient and cost themselves yards, Bell plays it cool. Bell's ability to wait for his blockers to develop and see the opening lets him get big chunks of yardage. The fact that he's got tremendous quickness and surprising power is a bonus.

Another great thing about Bell is the fact that he is only 22 years old and in his second season. As the Steelers offensive line continues to improve, and with the cast of skill players around him, expect bigger and better things going forward.

Who's the better back? I obviously lean toward Bell. His ability to carry the load as a running back mixed with his ability to impact the passing game gives him a clear edge.