Cardinals vs. Raiders: Marion Grice gets reps with first team

With Andre Ellington limited in most practices because of a foot injury and Jonathan Dwyer not playing the rest of the season, the running back situation has become all about Ellington. Stepfan Taylor barely touches the ball. It has been all Ellington for three games and his production is becoming less efficient.

When they picked up running back Marion Grice from the practice squad of the San Diego Chargers, the hope was that he could be another versatile threat at running back like Ellington. However, learning the offense has been a struggle and, as of a week ago, had yet to find a role on the offense.

That apparently has changed.

According to Fox Sports Radio 910's Mike Jurecki, Cardinals offensive coordinator Harold Goodwin said Grice got some first team reps in practice and could be used in a similar manner as Ellington.

That has local fans excited, as Grice was a standout at Arizona State.

Arizona badly needs production-- or at least some more snaps -- for another running back so Ellington is fresher and more productive later in games.

Grice could be that guy.

A week ago when I spoke with Grice, he still was having some problems with learning the offense. Maybe he turned a corner this week or maybe they decided what his role will be.

He has not been active for a game yet. Will that change? What are your hopes and expectations for the rookie running back?