Saints' Tim Hightower: Looks pedestrian in tune-up

Hightower gained 27 yards on eight carries and eight yards on one reception in Friday's preseason loss to the Steelers.

Analysis:

Hightower was the fourth Saints running back to get a touch, as the team's early game plan included a bunch of short passes to C.J. Spiller and Travaris Cadet. No matter, Hightower is expected to serve as Mark Ingram's top backup, though the role probably won't include work on passing downs, which was part of his appeal late last season. In the event of an Ingram injury, both Hightower and Spiller would likely get more work.