Election day in America. A day in which Americans (well, 50-60 percent of us) wake up 10 minutes early, drive about four minutes out of their way, and spend six minutes deciding the fate of the free world. It’s a beautiful, symbiotic act that is a true privilege of living in a democracy. Pennsylvania is a swing state, one in which the candidates have fought tooth and nail for, attempting to sway the voters based on our issues of greatest concern.
But one “hot-button” issue that the candidates have been mum on is the state of the Pittsburgh Steelers backfield. Messrs. Obama and Romney have avoided endorsing any candidate for starting running back, at the risk of alienating a large voting block. But when voters are at the polls, they need to know what these running backs stand for, and how hard they will fight once elected. It’s the cornerstone of this great nation, research their positions and cast your vote for who should manning the backfield for your Pittsburgh Steelers.
Rashard Mendenhall- The Incumbent
Since chosen in 2008, Mr. Mendenhall has had an up-and-down tenure as the Steelers starter. Many showed strong support of his administration in 2009 and 2010, buoyed by his 2010 “13 Touchdown Plan.” Mr. Mendenhall seemed to be a shoo-in for re-election this term, but he has been derailed by his counter-terrorism strategy, as terrorists attacked what has been referred to as the “ACL front.” His reign hasn’t been the same since. He is being attacked by his opponents as weak on defenses. He still has a strong level of support from the base, but his re-election is far from certain.
Isaac Redman- The Challenger
Two years ago, few knew the name of this upstart running back. But now most Pittsburghers know the candidate simply as “Red Zone Redman.” He has experienced a meteoric rise, very beloved for his ability to plow through the big issues with grit and determination. His biggest drawback is a supposed lack of versatility. While he is strong on several key points, voters question his ability to perform all tasks necessary to be a Steelers starting running back. A candidate must be well-versed, not just hammer away at one problem.
Jonathan Dwyer- The Third Party Candidate
Mr. Dwyer enjoyed a very popular tenure as the Head of Football Protection and Advancement at Georgia Tech, before having his tenure marred by allegations of drug use. After being vindicated of those charges, he was welcomed into the Steelers family. However, he remained on the fringes of political relevance for most of his time here. It was truly his performance in the mid-season debate that cemented his status as a legit third-party candidate. While Dwyer may not be destined for the starter’s role, he has cemented himself as a viable option for undecided voters.
Chris Rainey- The Long Shot
Mr. Rainey is a newcomer to the scene. Though his flashiness and bravado have captivated voters at times, he remains too fresh of a face to be considered for the job. Rainey will have to put in the work towards his campaign in 2016.
Baron Batch- The “Crazy Uncle” Candidate
Mr. Batch has built a small contingent of supporters who revel in his Twitter escapades, and who firmly believe that Batch would be the right man for the job. Unfortunately for Batch, most voters see him as a “crazy uncle.” An uncle that you don’t mind seeing on holidays and birthdays, but would drive you crazy if you had to deal with him every day. On Election Day, I still think he gets 1 percent of the popular vote.
It’s an important day for Pittsburghers, and Americans as a whole. Your vote will determine the direction of the Steelers offense in the weeks to come. Regardless of your party affiliation, be sure to go out there and exercise your civic duty as a Pittsburgh Steeler fan. The future is in your hands.
Photo Credits: Chicago Tribune
