Running back Ezekiel Elliott will be sitting out Sunday's game against the Atlanta Falcons, leaving Rico Dowdle and Dalvin Cook to take charge of the Dallas Cowboys' ground game. The Cowboys had announced on Saturday that Elliott would not be traveling with the team to Atlanta, without disclosing the specific reason for his absence.
This marks the first time in eight seasons that Elliott is missing a game for reasons other than injury, suspension, or games where his presence wasn't warranted. According to ESPN sources, Elliott's absence is reportedly due to disciplinary reasons.
The Cowboys, currently standing at 3-4, are facing the Falcons without defensive end Micah Parsons and cornerback DaRon Bland due to injuries. However, cornerback Trevon Diggs and linebacker Erick Kendricks are both active for the game after overcoming their respective injury concerns.
Elliott, who is averaging a career-low 3.1 yards per carry this season, has only managed to rush for 149 yards on 48 attempts with two touchdowns. The Cowboys' ground game has struggled, ranking last in the NFL with an average of 74 rushing yards per game. Quarterback Dak Prescott has contributed the team's only other rushing touchdown.
Rico Dowdle, who leads the team with 246 rushing yards, and Dalvin Cook, who was elevated from the practice squad, will be tasked with carrying the rushing load in Elliott's absence.
On the Falcons' side, notable absences include linebackers Troy Andersen and JD Bertrand due to injury. However, right guard Chris Lindstrom is available for the game.
With the Cowboys looking to end a two-game losing streak and get back to .500, the matchup against the Falcons holds significant importance for both teams as they aim to keep their playoff hopes alive.
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