ESPN: Devonta Freeman expected to be starting running back

Starting running back Tevin Coleman was injured against the New York Giants, and had to be carted off of the field. The injury should allow him to return soon, but after the injury update yesterday, not many are expecting Coleman to play this weekend.

According to ESPN's Caughn McClure, Devonta Freeman is expected to pick up the slack.

This is a little concerning for Atlanta's run game. Tevin Coleman has looked electric in this offense, and looks to only improve as the game slows down for him. Freeman on the other hand, has struggled to effectively run the ball. In an offense that is supposed to be friendly to running backs, the undersized Freeman has only managed 2.0 yards per carry.

While he has lacked explosive play-making ability, Freeman may be taking it easy on his hamstring injury. According to the ESPN article, Vaughn suggests that he needs volume to be effective.

I'm the type of back that, I get in a rhythm. Once I get in a rhythm, I get going, get a feel for the game -- knowing how to cut, knowing how to make certain cuts. Just understanding defenses and stuff. When we run the outside zone, pressing the blocks better.

With his only competition being undrafted Terron Ward, Freeman should get ample opportunity to get into a rhythm. If he can show off the skills that got him drafted in the fourth round last season, Freeman can earn the starting job over Coleman. If he makes an impression against the surprisingly stout Dallas Cowboys defense, he will deserve the starting job.