The Dallas Cowboys four biggest Giant killers on Sunday

EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY - DECEMBER 10: Rod Smith #45 of the Dallas Cowboys scores an 81 yard touchdown against the New York Giants during the fourth quarter in the game at MetLife Stadium on December 10, 2017 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY - DECEMBER 10: Rod Smith #45 of the Dallas Cowboys scores an 81 yard touchdown against the New York Giants during the fourth quarter in the game at MetLife Stadium on December 10, 2017 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) /
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EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY – DECEMBER 10: Rod Smith #45 of the Dallas Cowboys scores an 81 yard touchdown against the New York Giants during the fourth quarter in the game at MetLife Stadium on December 10, 2017 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY – DECEMBER 10: Rod Smith #45 of the Dallas Cowboys scores an 81 yard touchdown against the New York Giants during the fourth quarter in the game at MetLife Stadium on December 10, 2017 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) /

Rod Smith, Running Back

Stats: 47 rushing yards, 133 receiving yards, two touchdowns

It was a career-day for former Ohio State running back Rod Smith. But most Cowboy fans have been expecting a big game like this from Smith after the potential he showed in the preseason. It seemed like only a matter of time.

With Ezekiel Elliott’s suspension hanging over the Cowboys all season, the trio of Alfred Morris, Darren McFadden and Smith were expected to carry the load when or if Zeke was sidelined. That happened five weeks ago. And some surprising things followed.

The first being the fact McFadden would rush a single time for -2 yards prior to being released by the Cowboys. He would retire soon after. That showed the Cowboys faith in Smith.

The second being, Morris would get the start and play well. Well enough for the Cowboys running game not to be the focus of their losses during their Zeke-less run. And also well enough to stave off Smith, who possesses a more similar running style to Elliott than Morris. Alfred is more methodical and constant. Where Smith is powerful and surprisingly quick.

It’s been a solid combination in Elliott’s absence. And against the Giants on Sunday, it proved to be enough to keep a stalled Cowboys offense in the game. Then Smith exploded.

Two fourth quarter touchdowns by Rod Smith, one by air and the other via the ground, sealed the game for Dallas. With one contest left before Zeke returns, Smith will be brimming with confidence facing the Oakland Raiders in Week 15.