It just comes down to raw ability. Crowell has rare talent. His raw running skills are dominating. The coaches aren't blind. His exceptional talent is the reason he's getting a chance to take the job as a UDFA from their FA signee & a 3rd round pick. I own both Crowell & West, but this isn't close.
I actually thought West would show a little better as a pro, but I wouldn't say he's a disappointment. He just doesn't have Crowell's ability. There's not much else to say. Crow will win this job, but it's anybody's guess as to when.
BTW, I don't think the coaches are holding Crow back. They're just making him earn it. Big difference. That's just the way it is in the NFL. The top FA signees & higher draft picks get the first crack in almost all situations. In the meantime, they can play the hot hand or however they want to do it. You can bet that coaching staff realizes what they have in Crowell, though.