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The 2024 NFL season kicked off well for the Dallas Cowboys, with a convincing win over the Cleveland Browns, thanks to the combined efforts of running backs Ezekiel Elliott and Rico Dowdle. After the game, Elliott didn't hold back in sharing his opinion on head coach Mike McCarthy's decision to split snaps between the two backs.
One of the big questions during the Cowboys' offseason was what Elliott's role would be upon his return to the team. Although the nine-year veteran still has plenty to offer, he's far from his rookie days, and many questioned the team's decision to bring him back.
The mystery was solved last Sunday when McCarthy alternated between Elliott and Dowdle at running back. The gamble seemed to pay off for the Cowboys' head coach. Elliott ran for 40 yards on 10 carries, while Dowdle added 26 yards on eight rushes.
The numbers were modest, mainly because the Cowboys slowed down in the second half. However, Elliott thought McCarthy's idea of splitting the running back workload was a good one and expects it to continue paying off in the coming games.
Elliott approves McCarthy's strategy
Following the 33-17 Week 1 victory, Elliott expressed satisfaction with the ground game. "I think it turned out really well. I think it will continue that same way," the running back said to the local press.
"It probably got a little tough in that second half when we couldn't really get much going," Elliott itted, noting that he didn't see much action after halftime. "I think I was on the field in the third quarter for maybe like two or three plays, but that's just how the game went."
Still, he assured that once the offense settles, the ground attack will have more opportunities to shine. "If we do what we need to do on offense and sustain drives, that'll help get both me and Rico in rhythm," said the veteran.
Dallas vs. New Orleans
In their next matchup, the Cowboys will host the New Orleans Saints at AT&T Stadium. The Saints dominated their season opener, beating the Carolina Panthers 47-10. The Panthers' ground game struggled against the Saints' defense, managing only 58 rushing yards using five different backs.
Starter Miles Sanders was held to just 22 yards, and quarterback Bryce Young scored the Panthers' only rushing touchdown.
The game against the Saints will be a true test of McCarthy's strategy. If things go well, we'll likely see more of Elliott and Dowdle in Dallas' running game. If not, McCarthy and offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer may need to go back to the drawing board.