In the gridiron battle between the Dallas Cowboys and the Pittsburgh Steelers, all eyes were on running back Ezekiel Elliott. The Cowboys have been struggling on the ground this season, with their rushing attack ranking as one of the worst in the NFL. Despite the return of Elliott, who signed a one-year contract during the offseason, Dallas has only managed to average 82 rushing yards per game, which is the second-worst production in the league, just above the struggling New York Jets.
When questioned by reporters about his role in the offense, Elliott expressed his confusion and frustration with the lack of touches he’s been getting, especially in the red zone. Reporter Clarence Hill Jr. revealed that Elliott is “dumbfounded” by his role within the offense and has even had discussions with the coaching staff about the situation.
This season, Rico Dowdle has taken the spotlight as the primary ball carrier in Dallas. With 54 attempts and 221 yards, Dowdle leads the team in rushing. Elliott, on the other hand, has only carried the ball 30 times for 98 yards and one touchdown. His yards per carry and carries per game are at the lowest of his career.
In recent games, Elliott has notably been sidelined during crucial red zone opportunities, with Dowdle and fullback Hunter Luepke taking on more responsibilities. The Cowboys have been struggling in the red zone, scoring touchdowns on less than half of their trips inside the 20-yard line. With Dowdle’s recent fumble in a goal-line situation against the Steelers, there is speculation that giving Elliott more opportunities in those critical moments could lead to better results for Dallas.
As the Cowboys continue to search for answers in their rushing attack, all eyes are on Ezekiel Elliott and how he will be utilized moving forward in the season. Will the star running back get the touches he believes he deserves, or will Dallas continue to rely on Dowdle and Luepke in key situations? Only time will tell as the Cowboys look to turn their ground game around and find success in the red zone.
