What Should Fan Expect Sans Ezekiel Elliott?

There is never a dull moment when it comes to the Dallas Cowboys. They continue to dominate the headlines even on their bye week. Since Sunday’s loss to the Packers, the Cowboys have released Nolan Carroll, defensive tackle Stephen Paea has retired due to knee issues and they had to have a couple of team meetings after their owner made some remarks that made headlines and Ezekiel Elliott’s suspension is back on…….for now.

On Thursday afternoon, the 5^th Circuit of appeals vacated Elliott’s initial injunction and the running backs suspension will begin immediately, meaning he will miss the next six games. There is a lot that can happen in the next week and a half that could keep him on the field but at this point, he will be eligible to return November 30^th against the Washington Redskins. It remains to be seen how the Cowboys backfield will look without Zeke, if he can’t go.

Can the Cowboys survive this stretch without Ezekiel Elliott? Let’s take a look at the schedule and find out.

Week Seven: San Francisco 49ers

When you took a look at the schedule before the season started you probably had this game as a win and that doesn’t change without Elliott. This is the only game during this six game stretch where you would say the Cowboys “should win.” (Cowboys 3-3)

Week Eight: Washington Redskins

The Cowboys go on the road and win a tough, hard fought game in Washington. The defense will make a stop late in the game to help secure this win. (Cowboys 4-3)

Week Nine: Kansas City Chiefs

This is where the Cowboys schedule takes a turn. The Chiefs have been the best team in football so far this season and they will come into Jerry’s world and win. For what it’s worth, I think the Chiefs come into this game 8-0. (Cowboys 4-4)

Week 10: Atlanta Falcons

The best defense against the Falcons is keeping that offense off the field and without the Elliott that task becomes more difficult, which is why the Cowboys leave Atlanta with their second straight loss. (Cowboys 4-5)

Week 11: Philadelphia Eagles

This is a game that comes down to Wentz against Dak and who can make more plays. Going into week six, the eagles were second in the league stopping the run, behind only the Denver Broncos who the Cowboys lost to earlier in the season. This game will be pivotal if the Cowboys are to stay in playoff contention. With that being said, Dak is able to make just enough plays against the Eagles secondary to avoid their 3^rd straight loss. (Cowboys 5-5)

Week 12: San Diego Chargers

This is the most important game behind the 49ers game. If the Cowboys can win this game they will get Ezekiel Elliott back a game over .500 and just in time for a critical stretch to end the season that includes all three division rivals plus Oakland and Seattle. Cowboys will win this game and go 4-2 without their star running back. (Cowboys 6-5)