Antone Smith Likely to be More Involved in the Falcons Offense Going Foward

Antone Smith hasn't been a running back for the Falcons. He's been a Pro Bowl caliber special teamer, undoubtedly the team's best. But as traditional running back duties go, Smtih's not contributed, he just hasn't. That changed yesterday, when Smith rushed the ball twice, gaining 50 yards and 38 yards. Arguably two rushes do not a career make, but it sounds like Mike Smith wants to get him involved in the offense going forward.

“I thought Antone showed some explosiveness when he got the ball in his hands,” Smith said. “I think it’s going to be imperative that we try to get him incorporated into our offense. You saw his speed and his ability to make people  miss. He’s a guy who should (get) and deserve some touches (based off) what he did on Sunday afternoon.”

Talk about making the most of an opportunity. It's hard not to feel good for Smith. Sure, he's carved out a comfortable niche as a special teamer, but the running back in him wants to pound the rock. Alas, the rock he shall pound, assuming he's given the opportunity.

First, it's not like there are a ton of carries to go around. Smith hasn't hurdled Jason Snelling on the depth chart, notwithstanding the latter's recent arrest for puffing the magic dragon. Second, with an offensive line that thinks run blocking is a process by which pantyhose are repaired, he's got his work cut out for him. He'll be hard pressed to emulate his production against the Bucs.

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