The Dallas Cowboys’ 2024 campaign has been riddled with struggles, but the emergence of an improving running game offers a rare silver lining. After a sluggish start, the Cowboys’ rushing attack is finally showing signs of life, giving fans a glimpse of promise for the future.
Through the first half of the season, Dallas ranked near the bottom in most rushing metrics, raising questions about the team’s offensive identity. However, a recent shift in approach has sparked an upward trend, largely thanks to the growing role of running back Rico Dowdle.
Dowdle’s Impact Fuels Revival
After recovering from an illness that sidelined him in Week 8, Dowdle has seized his opportunity. Over the past two games, he’s been a revelation, helping the Cowboys achieve a staggering 5.2 yards per carry—ranking third in the league during that stretch. His performances against the Eagles and in Week 9 were standout moments, with Dowdle amassing 75 yards on 12 carries one week and following it up with 53 yards on the same workload.
Beyond his ground contributions, Dowdle has also proven to be a versatile weapon. This season, he’s tallied 24 receptions and three receiving touchdowns, making him a reliable outlet in the passing game—a much-needed asset for an offense currently led by backup quarterbacks Cooper Rush and Trey Lance.
Over the past two weeks, the #Cowboys are averaging 5.2 yards per carry, 3rd best in the NFL.
Translation: Give Rico Dowdle the ball more.
(stat via @dallascowboys) pic.twitter.com/Hrlnuigy2y
— Brandon Loree (@Brandoniswrite) November 14, 2024
A New Offensive Focus?
With Dak Prescott sidelined for the remainder of the season, the Cowboys appear poised to lean on their surging rushing attack. Head coach Mike McCarthy recently emphasized the importance of capitalizing on Dowdle’s momentum, signaling a commitment to the ground game as the team looks to salvage what’s left of their season.
This renewed focus on the run game could be critical for a team navigating turbulent waters. While the playoffs might be out of reach, the emergence of Dowdle and the improved ground game offer a blueprint for the Cowboys’ offensive strategy moving forward.
Looking Ahead
For a team that began the season searching for answers in the backfield, the recent spark from Dowdle is a much-needed dose of optimism. As the Cowboys prepare for the final stretch, establishing a consistent rushing attack could not only stabilize the offense but also set the stage for brighter prospects in 2025.
The question now is whether Dallas can maintain this momentum and turn their newfound rushing success into a sustainable foundation for the future.
