Cleveland Browns running backs Isaiah Crowell and Terrance West held down the top two spots on Marc Sessler's "Rookie Watch" this week.
As impressive as the dynamic rookie duo has been, though, position coach Wilbert Montgomery expects Ben Tate to assume the starting role once the veteran returns from a sprained knee.
"That's what we brought Tate here for, to be the starter," Montgomery explained, via the Akron Beacon Journal. "He's the No. 1 running back in this offense. Right now, you can say we miss him. We miss his experience. We miss his leadership with the group. Speaking from that standpoint, we'll be open arms and welcome to have Ben back into the fold."
While the Browns await Tate's return, there was a changing of the guard among the rookies in Wednesday's practice.
Crowell graduated to first-team reps in the media-access portion of practice, with West handling the second-team work.
It's hardly a surprise that Crowell is poised for an increased workload. He has outplayed West through three games, finding the end zone three times while averaging a gaudy 5.2 yards per carry.
No matter which tailback totes the pigskin, the Browns figure to remain a run-oriented offense coming out of the Week 4 bye.
On the latest Around The NFL Podcast, the heroes chat with two-time MVP Kurt Warner, debate the NFL's top throwing arms and preview Thursday night's game.
