Tatum the better of the two Bells

Matthew Hill, Special to the News

Published September 12, 2006 at midnight

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Many things in the NFL are obvious – Reggie Bush is better than Mario Williams; Terrell Owens’ antics are simply a coverup for low self-esteem; the success of Shanahan’s system is simply a result of him having the nastiest collection of offensive linemen in the NFL. We can now add this to the list of the obvious – Tatum Bell is better than Mike Bell. Much better.

Why this is even a debate is a mystery. Tatum is faster, more explosive, and based on Mike’s effort vs. Leonard Little, a better blocker. Tatum even has the same size, build and number as Clinton Portis, the most talented running back to have been blessed to run in Shanahan’s system. Tatum’s career yards-per-carry average (5.3) alone should secure him the starting spot.

There has to be an untold story. We know that Shanahan wasn’t pleased when Tatum held out his rookie year. Shanahan expects things to be done a certain way and holdouts are big on his "don’t even think about it" list. But please tell me he hasn’t been holding a grudge for this long.

Tell me that there is something more. Please tell me that Tatum is the Broncos version of the woman in Office Space who annoys everyone with her "looks like somebody has a case of the Mondays" declarations. Does Tatum routinely admonish Shanahan to "turn that frown upside down" after big losses? When Shanahan yells at his players, does Tatum raise his hand and ask him in a hurt voice, "Why do you have to be so mean? We’re trying really hard, Coach." Tell me there is some reason why Shanahan refuses to let this talent be the feature back.

Whatever the reason, Shanahan thought so little of his best back that he made him split time with an undrafted rookie on opening day. Besides having his stats padded from a 36-yard run courtesy of a mammoth hole from the line (a.k.a. The System), Mike was totally outshined by Tatum.

While we don’t know what goes on behind the scenes in Broncoland, we do know some things about the Bells. Teammates praise Mike’s work ethic, and he grew up a hard-core Bronco fan. Reports indicate Tatum’s inner drive has room for improvement. This leads me to believe that Mike Bell is nothing more than a running back version of that rabbit whipping around the dog track, spurring the greyhounds to a full-speed chase. Mike’s here, living out his Rudy-like "I’m gonna run out that tunnel someday" dream of playing for his favorite team, all the while oblivious that he’s an expendable pawn brought in by Shanahan to light a fire under the talented Tatum.

It is only a matter of time before Mike will be sent on his way. Don’t feel bad for him, though; it won’t be long before Tatum will be gone as well. They will both be casualties of a coach determined to prove that anyone can succeed in The System.

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