Cowboys: ESPN analyst continues campaign to change offense
DALLAS — Ezekiel Elliott versus Tony Pollard has been a popular topic of conversation regarding the Dallas Cowboys. The veteran Pro Bowler versus the young, exciting, up-and-comer. There are arguments to be made in favor of either. Elliott is the proven back that can handle the grind of the rushing attack. Additionally, he is excellent […]
DALLAS — Ezekiel Elliott versus Tony Pollard has been a popular topic of conversation regarding the Dallas Cowboys. The veteran Pro Bowler versus the young, exciting, up-and-comer.
There are arguments to be made in favor of either. Elliott is the proven back that can handle the grind of the rushing attack. Additionally, he is excellent in pass protection, arguably his best asset at this stage of his career.
On the other hand, Pollard is the more explosive playmaker that can score from anywhere. He is dynamic with the ball and is a threat as a receiver. That said, Pollard has not been the lead back and struggles in pass pro.
Dallas needs both, for some different reasons, to be successful. That said, it makes sense for the Cowboys to utilize Pollard more in the offense as soon as this season.
ESPN analyst calls for more Tony Pollard
The debate, or topic, of Elliott and Pollard has even reached ESPN. The utilization of the two backs has been brought up by the Worldwide Leader in Sports, as the NFL Live crew discussed the subject earlier this week.
Mina Kimes did not hold back in the segment. Kimes stated that the Cowboys need to "wake up and use Tony Pollard more before it's too late!" Pollard is entering the final season of his rookie deal.
Kimes notes that Elliott is still a valuable player in the offense for the Cowboys. His ability to grind out tough yards and be a workhorse back is evident. Still, Pollard provides Dallas with another dynamic and is among the best in the league in yards-after-contact.
"He's an outlet for Dak Prescott. He's extremely fast, has that top-end speed. He adds another dimension to this offense that has been a bit lackluster as of late," Kimes said on ESPN.
To further the point, Tony Pollard averaged a career-best 6.2 yards from scrimmage last season. Ezekiel Elliott, on the other hand, averaged nearly two yards fewer. That does not tell the full story of the two, but the difference is pretty stark.
The Dallas Cowboys, to Mina Kimes' argument, need to get Tony Pollard more involved in the offense next season.
Featured image Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports
