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Steelers' Dynamic Running Back Duo Of Najee Harris And Jaylen Warren Provoked By Marshawn Lynch
Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports

The Pittsburgh Steelers experienced an offensive explosion in their recent game against the Seattle Seahawks, thanks in no small part to their dynamic running back duo of Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren. In a thrilling 30-23 victory, Harris and Warren showcased their skills as they tore through the Seahawks' defense.

Harris had an exceptional outing, rushing for an impressive 122 yards and contributing two touchdowns to the Steelers' scoreboard. His partner in the backfield, Warren, added to the spectacle with 75 rushing yards and one touchdown of his own. When you tally up their statistics, these two running backs combined for a staggering 197 yards gained on the ground and three touchdowns, showcasing their remarkable synergy.

Steelers Running Back's Provoked By Marshawn Lynch

What made this performance even more remarkable was the presence of Marshawn Lynch, a close friend and mentor to Harris. Lynch, an iconic figure in the NFL, was in attendance, and his impact on the game was palpable. For Harris, having Lynch in the stands was a source of motivation and inspiration.

"It's always good to see Marshawn. Pretty much the guys that are in my circle, they were all there at the game. This is a place that's obviously close to home, so a lot of guys were able to make it."

Lynch's presence wasn't limited to just Harris. He also took a keen interest in Warren, a hard-hitting undrafted free agent who has been making waves with the Steelers in 2023.

"Shoot, I was starstruck," Warren admitted. "I watched him growing up. I was like, 'Is that Marshawn Lynch?'"

Lynch's appearance at the game had a profound and positive impact on the Steelers' running back duo. He may have indirectly, yet undeniably, ignited a fire within them. Dan Moore Jr., an offensive lineman for the Steelers, noticed the transformation in their play and would agree.

"He ran like I've never seen him run before," Moore exclaimed. "I saw him stiff-arm a d-lineman. That was crazy. You get runs like that, he feeds off of it."

During the game against the Seahawks, Harris and Warren ran with a purpose, their determination fueled by the presence of their childhood idol, Lynch. One play, in particular, echoed Lynch's legendary style. 

In the third quarter, Harris took the ball and powered through Bobby Wagner and multiple Seahawks defenders, turning a seemingly no-gain situation into a remarkable five-yard touchdown run. It was a display of sheer strength and willpower reminiscent of Lynch himself.

The resurgence of the Steelers' offense, led by quarterback Mason Rudolph, has been a significant factor in the success of Harris and Warren. As the passing game has opened up, opposing defenses have been forced to adjust, creating more opportunities for the running backs to shine. Harris and Warren have embraced the challenge, relishing the chance to control the game and showcase their exceptional talents with the football.

While Warren confessed to being starstruck upon meeting Lynch, he has rapidly emerged as an X-factor for the Steelers. Lynch's endorsement of Harris and Warren is not only a significant validation of their abilities, but also a moment of pride for the entire team and its fans.

Lynch epitomized the standard that the Steelers' running back duo strives to uphold week in and week out. Few running backs would earn Lynch's endorsement, but Harris and Warren have done just that. Lynch's illustrious career saw him carry the ball 2,453 times, amassing an impressive 10,413 yards and scoring 85 touchdowns. He stood as one of the most formidable forces in the history of the running back position, causing defenders to make calculated decisions when confronted head-on by his relentless running style.

Harris has had some impressive stiff arms throughout his career. It's safe to say he has watched a lot of game film on his mentor Lynch. Warren is also no stranger to imposing his will on defenders. One thing was for certain on Sunday, their synergy on the field was undeniable, and they ran with the determination and power reminiscent of their childhood idol. With the Steelers' offense clicking on all cylinders, the dynamic running back duo of Harris and Warren has become a formidable force, much to the delight of Steeler Nation.

This article first appeared on SteelerNation.com and was syndicated with permission.

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