Cedric Benson gets ready for the Packer’s season opener
With over 1,500 carries and almost 5,800 rushing yards, Green Bay Packers running back Cedric Benson certainly has been around the gridiron a few times. After spending the past four seasons playing for the Cincinnati Bengals, this preseason may have been one of the harder ones for the veteran running back. He began practicing with the team midway through August and started learning a new offense.
After playing in the last two preseason games and going through number of practices, he says he is ready to go for Sunday’s game against the San Francisco 49ers.
However, Benson said he would have liked a few more carries during the preseason.
Audio: Cedric Benson wishes he got a few more carries during preseason :14
It goes without question, his work ethic is there. Benson has spent extra time with his position coach, and even took things a step further by sitting in on quarterback meetings. Anything to advance his knowledge of the Packers offense.
The extra time has paid off enough for Benson, who said he’ll be ready to go on Sunday against the 49ers.
Audio: Benson on his comfort level for Sunday’s game :15
Benson doesn’t have the entire playbook memorized, but he is confident he’s got enough of it to be effective.
The Packers have made it known they like to throw the ball and throw it often, but Benson is hoping he’s the answer in the 4th quarter when the Packers are trying to put the game on ice.
Audio: Benson on his 4th quarter impact for running game :15
Benson adds experience and strength to a rushing attack that saw defensive lineman B.J. Raji score as many rushing touchdowns as running back James Starks last year.
The Packers run game gets a real good test on Sunday, facing last season’s number one rushing defense. The 49ers allowed just 77 rushing yards per game. Benson says there is no better way to test him and the team.
Audio: Benson on opening season up with the 49ers :19
As Benson and the Packers draw closer to Sunday, Packer Nation will standby and hope that Benson and his experience can help solve one of the top defenses in the league.