Dallas Cowboys: More passes to Zeke and Pollard – Is that a good thing?

Is it good that the Dallas Cowboys are planning to use their two running backs more in the passing game?

The hype surrounding the Dallas Cowboys is at peak levels here in Year 1 of Mike McCarthy. With a proven offensive mind running the show, the sky is the limit for what many consider the strongest offensive roster in the league. Not only are the Cowboys inserting their shiny new weapons into this already great offense, but they’re finding new ways to use old weapons as well.

No longer satisfied with just running Ezekiel Elliott head-first into eight-man boxes over and over again, the Cowboys are looking for new ways to get the ball into the hands of their three-time Pro Bowler. Ways that let him exploit match-ups and operate in space. Ways that are only possible through the passing game…

For years we’ve been clamoring for the Dallas Cowboys to use their running backs more as pass-catchers and less like traditional running backs. Versatile players like Alvin Kamara and Christian McCaffrey have delivered their most damage through the passing game. Gone are the days of the between-the-tackles bell cow bruisers. Now is the time for multipurpose exploitative play-makers.

The Dallas Cowboys Arsenal

This bodes well for the two highly talented multi-tooled running backs the Dallas Cowboys employ. Ezekiel Elliott is arguably the best-rounded running back in the NFL. Utilizing him more in the passing game is a way to take his game to the next level.

Tony Pollard also stands to profit. The second year back out of Memphis split time in college between RB and WR. In fact, he racked up more receiving yards in his three year college career than he did rushing yards. Considering Pollard earned the highest elusive rating in the NFL last season, it makes sense the Dallas Cowboys are looking for ways to get him the ball in space.

So let’s do deep dive into running back receivers today. We’ll start with looking at their value..