The Dallas Cowboys have one of the most impressive offenses in the NFL right now. And while Dak Prescott deserves plenty of praise, so does fellow rookie Ezekiel Elliott.
The first-round rookie running back out of Ohio State has been the best running back in the NFL through six games, and it’s not even close. With 703 yards already, he’s rushed for 116 more yards than the next-best running back in the league, LeSean McCoy of the Buffalo Bills.
At his current pace of 117.2 yards per game he’s on pace to rush for 1,875 yards, which would set a new NFL rookie record, as pointed out by Josh Alper of Pro Football Talk.
#Cowboys rookie running back Ezekiel Elliott is on pace to break Eric Dickerson's rookie rushing record, averaging 117.2 yds per game. pic.twitter.com/7PJXl010C8
— Sportsnaut (@Sportsnaut) October 17, 2016
Elliott failed to get into the end zone Sunday against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field. But he did manage to rush for 157 yards, leading a Dallas rushing attack that finished with 20 more yards against Green Bay than all four previous teams combined had managed against the Packers’ defense.
Those who watched Elliott run at Ohio State aren’t likely that surprised at his success. And aside from his own natural talents, the rookie is running behind one of the best — if not the best — offensive lines in football.
He’s seeing the holes with clarity and has shown patience normally reserved for veterans. Elliott also has the burst and power to rocket through those holes, gaining positive yards more often than not.
The Cowboys now head into their bye week at 5-1 on the season. They have a decision to make at the quarterback position, with Tony Romo becoming healthy enough to play in Week 8 or Week 9. But after the way Prescott has played, we’re of the opinion that making a switch would be a huge mistake (more on that here).
It’s going to be interesting to see how the Cowboys handle this sticky situation. Owner Jerry Jones has been non-committal about the upcoming quarterback controversy, smartly refusing to take a side while he let things play out.
Regardless of who is behind center, the ‘Boys are secure knowing they have the NFL’s best running back to make life easier on the offense. Elliott is a keeper, that’s for sure.