The NFL 2023 season is winding down and the Dallas Cowboys have whipped up full of offensive MVPs that are being considered. CeeDee Lamb, Dak Prescott, and shockingly Rookie Kicker, Brandon Aubrey are putting a strong resume for their performance this year. The holidays are coming up and there’s so much to cheer for, especially the expectation of heading to the playoffs. However, there is one name that is emerging themselves to become a unique player for Dallas.
After cementing his starting role for RB2, Rico Dowdle has been efficient just like how the Cowboys have been able to use Ezekiel Elliott. Of course, after Elliott was released, the team had to find another running back to fill in those shoes. Tony Pollard is the starter, but the Cowboys didn’t want all the workload on him. Dowdle is being used in the red zone more often than Pollard and it has paid off.
There are questions about whether Dallas is using both of these running backs to their full potential. However, it’s still working out for the team as the offense is using a one-two-punch approach, the same way as the workload of Elliott and Pollard. It’s a different offense, though, the team is using a “West Coast” system to rely more on the passing game.
Despite that, when they’re in the endzone and need to punch it in, Dowdle is the perfect match for it. While Pollard is expected to take the long runs and make explosive plays, Dowdle can put the icing on the cake. It was slow for the run game to get open, but it’s finally to see the light at the end of the tunnel.
After a review, Rico Dowdle was given a TD on this run and the Cowboys extend their lead
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The Dallas Cowboys Have an Underrated Offensive Gadget
Break on Through
There haven’t been any signs of Dallas bringing in RB3, Deuce Vaughn for snaps recently. This only means that it’s up to Pollard and Dowdle to take the workload. Deuce’s time will come soon, but it’s time for the Cowboys to see what they can do more in the run game. Fans probably won’t see this anytime soon, but the run finally has a heartbeat. Both of these running backs have unique traits to keep the defense dancing around.
There were high expectations for Vaughn to take over as RB2, but Dowdle sneaked his way into that spot. Despite his injury past, he’s still earning his strides it’s not even the end of it, just yet. He’s still dealing with an injury he suffered in a win against the Eagles, but if he can remain healthy then all will be history. His story is still unwritten and there is still a lot of potential for him in the long run.
If Cowboys fans want to cheer for someone who embodies perseverance and determination, look no further than Rico Dowdle. He took the long highway to get to his destination and he’s the clear-cut backup running back for the team. It’s not his final stop as he still has to go through traffic while riding out as a hidden gem for this West Coast offense.
How the Dallas Cowboys can continue using Rico Dowdle
Dallas could continue Dowdle like they always have been. However, the team can consider switching it up to see what else he can bring. It may be a perfect time until after the team officially makes the playoffs. The Cowboys may want Dowdle to switch to a starting role, but that’s only when they want Pollard to rest for the postseason.
That’s a long time from now since Dallas still has a long tough stretch before they get there. They still have to get through Buffalo, Miami, Detroit and Washington once again. The only winnable game seems to be against the Commanders, so they may give Dowdle some extra snaps there. The Cowboys could get cute, but they can’t afford it since Pollard needs to be fresh so it’ll be interesting to see how they play it out.
Dowdle could partake in 50% of the snaps because Dallas is focusing on their passing game, which has been dominant. But, they should keep using Dowdle in the red zone and even consider running a screenplay or play-action where that offensive line can get moving. The good news for Dowdle is that Dallas is continuing to use two running back systems.
Main Photo: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports
