Dallas Cowboys: 3 Ways to fix the offense in 2018
By Joel W. Cade
Cowboys need to diversify their running back options
The Cowboys have one running back. Ok, technically they have five running backs on the roster. They have six if you count Tavon Austin. But of the five running backs, they only have one running back. That one running back is a power back who executes the zone run scheme.
The real source of offense for the Cowboys is Ezekiel Elliott. Behind the all world offensive line, an elite running back like Elliott can carry a team. The problem with Elliott carrying the team is burn out. With the amount of hits and carries Elliott has been averaging, he may only last five years in the league. It may sound crazy now, but there is a reason teams don’t offer running backs big money. The reason is that running backs heading into their second contract with carry numbers like Elliott’s experience a drastic decline in production.
The Cowboys simply cannot continue with the brutal pace and carry numbers of Elliott or they may find their main offensive weapon worn out. Instead, along with diversifying their scheme, they need to diversify their running back room.
They need a running back that can provide a change of pace to what Elliott brings to the table. They need a back who can catch out of the backfield and bring a slashing speed option to the offense. Moving Austin to running back would fit that need.
Next: NFL 2018: One likely veteran cut for each team
By diversifying their running back styles, the Cowboys could expand their offense to include plays designed for a speedy slash back who could take advantage of defensive formations looking to stop Elliot.
If the Cowboys want to over come their perceived handicap of a weak wide receiver corps, they need resist the idea to contract their offense. Instead they need to expand what they already do exponentially to create natural space and opportunities for their playmakers.