I’ll never forget in ’07 going on a roadie to Chicago to see the Bears and Lions battle at Soldier Field. Despite the 4-2 record, we had LOWLOWLOW expectations for the pitiful Lions. Midway through the third quarter, as Cedric Benson plows into the back of his offensive line (en route to rushing for a robust 3.8 yards per carry for the game) being tackled for a minimal gain, a member of my party stands up and shouts, “THAT GUY SUCKS!”. The fans surrounding us thoroughly agreed and cheered the sentiment. (As a sidenote, the Lions won the game, 16-7, as a direct result from, and I quote Bear Fan, “being too scared to kick the ball to Devin Hester”.)
Last year, when Benson resembled the closest thing to an actual fantasy option as he ever has, I was pleasantly surprised. One less running back by committee in the league is good for everybody. You could start the guy as your #2 back and not be the laughing-stock of your league. I wished him the best.
News out of Austin, TX has Benson being tossed out of a bar, accusing the tossers of racism and splitting people’s lips, allegedly. Apparently, Benson’s side of the story hasn’t been told, and he’s waiting for the “appropriate time” to share it.
Assuming no suspensions are handed down by the NFL and depending on where you pick in your draft, look to target Benson in the 3rd round. If Roger Goodell decides to flex his authoritative muscle and Benson ends up sitting for a few weeks, I wouldn’t pick him any higher than 6th round.
