The running back situation in Dallas remains unsolved, at least regarding the number of snaps Rico Dowdle and Ezekiel Elliott will each play on Sunday.
Mike McCarthy did not give any confirmation Thursday about what the split will look like against an Eagles run defense that is top 10 in the NFL in yards per carry.
Dowdle had his best game as a Cowboy in Dallas’ last win, rushing for 87 yards on 20 carries against the Steelers. He had 75 rushing yards on 12 carries against Atlanta last week.
“I like the way he played,” said McCarthy, when asked what he thought of Dowdle’s performance against the Falcons. “I think he’s improved each week with more opportunities.”
Elliott did not play in last week’s game as the Cowboys made him a healthy scratch. The nine-year veteran did not travel with the team after it disciplined him for missing multiple meetings this season. Elliott has rushed for 149 yards on 48 carries this year.
McCarthy indicated Thursday that he and Elliott discussed his situation this week, and that the running back has rejoined team activities.
“We sat down and talked on Tuesday, but yeah, he’s jumped right back in,” McCarthy said. “He’s got a bright light, a lot of personality, so he’s had a good week so far.”
Dowdle has been the better pass-catching back this year, accumulating 163 yards and three touchdowns on 21 receptions. He had five receptions for 32 yards, a season-high, and a touchdown last week.
“I’m definitely feeling comfortable both rushing and receiving, I just want the ball if I can get it,” Dowdle said after practice Thursday.
“Pass catching is important in this offense, and it’s just about giving the quarterbacks reminders to take it if the defense is giving it to us,” he added. “Same thing if it’s Dak, same thing if it’s Cooper, just reminding them I’m there, and that we need to keep them protected.”
McCarthy did not indicate whether Dowdle or Elliott will start on Sunday. Both running backs have been full practice participants this week.
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