It is a part of human nature to save the best for the last and to extract maximum utility from everything. For instance, while enjoying a movie, it is normal to steadily enjoy a bowl of popcorn rather than finish it entirely within the first few minutes. The popcorn analogy happens to be the answer to a question in the minds of Cowboy fans.
Five weeks through the season, the team has refrained from using Ezekiel Elliott as much as they could. The team has relied more on Dak Prescott and the passing game rather than the run game. Owner and general manager Jerry Jones justified the team’s decision to use Zeke as little as possible during his latest radio appearance on 105.3 the fan.
His response to a question about Ezekiel Elliott expressing his objection to how he has been utilized was “We’re saving him. And we should be.” Cowboys reporter Clarence Hill Jr. revealed via X that the running back was not happy with getting few opportunities. He has been “dumbfounded” by how Mike McCarthy has decided to use his skill set.
Ezekiel Elliott aside, Jerry Jones’ primary focus is to win games
Jerry Jones’ response was nothing short of surprising. The Dallas Cowboys have a player who gives them a better shot at converting on red-zone plays and reducing the reliance on the passing game but are hesitant to utilize him. Make it make sense.
Jones’ statement could mean one of two things. First, he is concerned that by making Zeke one of the key parts of the Cowboys’ offense, the team is putting him at a higher risk of being injured, or second, the running back is expected to play a bigger role and step up during the playoffs or in critical moments when the offense needs to perform. The second possibility is likely to be the case.
Jerry Jones’ primary aim this season is to win games. If that means giving Ezekiel Elliott fewer touches on the ball, then so be it. Jones stated conveying the team’s priority to win games rather than focus on the utilization of players.
I don’t think Zeke was as surprised as he let on. We’re trying to win games, and we’ll use our players accordingly.
Jerry Jones added
Through five weeks, Ezekiel Elliott has 98 yards on 30 carries and 1 touchdown. His frustration is justified but it seems he will need to wait for the right moment to have a bigger impact.
