Trey Benson’s performance against the New Orleans Saints marked a new chapter in his role with the Arizona Cardinals. The running back broke free for a 52-yard run, his longest in the NFL so far, before being caught from behind by Saints defensive end Carl Granderson.
“In my head I was like, ‘It’s about time,'” Benson said of breaking a long gain. “But (expletive) I usually take those to the crib. Next time I will for sure.”
Benson finished the game with 69 rushing yards on eight carries and saw increased usage on third downs. He played 22 snaps, tying his career high and accounting for 33 percent of offensive snaps. Notably, he was on the field for nine non-penalized third downs, which represented 41 percent of such plays for the team—an increase from just 5.8 percent during his rookie season.
Emari Demercado, who previously filled the third-down back role, did not play an offensive snap in New Orleans—the first time that has happened in his career when active.
“They challenged me this offseason to be ready for that role and I came in prepared,” Benson said. “It’s been good. I’m taking it day by day, learning from Emari. I still ask him questions. The whole room is helping me.”
Head coach Jonathan Gannon commented on Benson’s effort: “I think he did a good job.” Gannon noted that Benson had some effective runs and acknowledged that Benson was upset about making a wrong read on one play.
Quarterback Kyler Murray also weighed in: “That was a crazy play, good effort,” Murray said regarding Granderson’s tackle after Benson’s long run.
Benson expressed respect for Granderson but made clear he expects more from himself going forward: “Kudos to number 96 for sure even though I wasn’t running full speed, you know?” Benson said with a smile. “It won’t happen again. It shouldn’t happen at all.”
The Cardinals are preparing to face the Carolina Panthers next week as they continue their regular season schedule.
