The Dallas Cowboys got back in the win column in Week 7, defeating the Detroit Lions 24-6. It was the first time this season that Dallas had their starting offense in place as Dak Prescott returned to the lineup for the first time since Week 1 and wide receiver Michael Gallup has also made his return to the lineup.
However, the Cowboys did not come out of their Week 7 game unscathed. There is some concern when it comes to running back Ezekiel Elliott. He is dealing with a knee ailment and some concerning news updates were shared to start the practice week.
According to head coach Mike McCarthy, Elliott did not practice with the team on Wednesday because of a knee ailment. Ari Meirov of PFF shared the update.
Elliot was starting to show some life in the last two weeks, rushing the ball 28 times for 138 yards and three touchdowns. He also added one reception for five yards, but overall, the Ohio State product has looked like a shell of himself.
He looks plodding out on the field, lacking any burst and explosiveness. He has found some success near the goal line, but the Cowboys have begun getting Tony Pollard more reps and he has looked like the better option. If Elliott were to miss time, Pollard would step into a three-down featured back role.
Pollard has looked like the better back the last few seasons but has remained a clear-cut second option behind Elliott. That has begun changing in recent weeks and if Elliott is forced to miss time, could become more permanent with Pollard taking on a larger role.
The Memphis product has a ton of burst and legitimate dual-threat ability out of the backfield. This season he is averaging 5.6 yards per carry compared to only 4.1 for Elliott. Despite handling 42 more carries, Elliott has only 68 more yards than Pollard on the season.
The Dallas offense may actually benefit from Pollard becoming the starter should this knee injury keep Elliott sidelined. Dallas could opt to hold Elliott out with their bye coming in Week 9, hoping that he is fully healthy for the second half of the season. If that occurs, expect a big dose of Pollard against the Chicago Bears this weekend.
