3 reasons Cowboys should start Tony Pollard over Ezekiel Elliott in 2022

2 of 3

Dec 19, 2021; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; Dallas Cowboys running back Tony Pollard (20) is tackled by New York Giants inside linebacker Tae Crowder (48) during the second half at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Ability to Break Tackles

This may come as a surprise to some as Elliott was always known as a guy who would not go down without a fight. However, last season, that was not the case. Elliott broke a mere 19 tackles all season, while Pollard broke 27 in over 100 fewer carries. Elliott didn’t show the speed and elusiveness last season to make defenders miss, while it was seen as one of Pollard’s greatest strengths.

https://twitter.com/PFF/status/1374700023292760067?s=20&t=RpIZYoSh4pZmU3ZRTMccxg

Yards after contact is also a great way of telling a running back’s story. Elliott averaged about 2.7 yards after contact per carry last season. Pollard averaged almost a whole yard more at 3.6 yards after contact per carry. While this may not seem like much, it adds up. Just the one-yard per carry difference over the course of 100 carries is a whole football field’s worth.

While Elliott has a stronger and bulkier frame than Pollard, Elliott tends to go down at the first defender. Pollard has the speed and elusiveness to make defenders miss and breakaway in between blocks. He isn’t the strongest guy, but he still shows the fight and grittiness to fight for every yard, which is very valuable in a game where every yard counts.

Home/Cowboys Roster