Big surprise, the running-back-by-committee approach doesn't seem to be working. Would it be better to lean heavily on one lead back (even if he is average), rather than trying to get several players involved? How can they ever find any rhythm? – Brett Bartles/San Diego, CA
Nick: Honestly, I never really care what the running back rotation is. At the end of the day, or season, you just want maximum production. If that's with one guy, go for it. But there's not many teams in the league that have just one guy. Even the best backs in the league have another guy to lean on. So I have a hard time thinking that just an "average" back as the question suggests would be better than two or three. Obviously, this isn't an ideal setup and the Cowboys knew going into the season it could be this way. Personally, I think you go with Dalvin Cook for some carries this week but I still think Zeke should get a few reps, too. Cook and Zeke would be my preference at this point.
Kurt: Rico Dowdle and Ezekiel Elliott are tied for first on the team with 56 rushing yards with Dowdle having received 15 carries and Elliot 16. Neither back is on pace to top 150 carries or 500 rushing yards this season. In addition, Dowdle has the edge in receptions with 5 catches for 35 yards to Elliott's four for 25, and Pro Football Focus has Dowdle grading better in pass blocking. So even though the production for both has been average at best, I do wonder if the Dallas offense would see better results if they committed to just one lead back. While combined the pair could reach 1,000 rushing yards, if Dowdle was given, say, 60 percent of the running back touches instead of his current 42 percent, would he find himself more in the flow of the game and thus have a better idea of what the defense is doing? Of the top-10 rushing teams so far in the NFL, eight have one predominant back. After two games, though, Elliott has played 45.1 percent of the snaps and Dowdle 43.6. I agree, how can either find any rhythm? Of course, the Cowboys offensive line is a whole other issue (Dallas is averaging only 2.8 rushing yards before contact), so it may not matter who is running the ball. Still, if the committee approach isn't working, maybe tying the reins to one lead horse is worth a shot.
