The Dallas Cowboys are in the throes of a challenging season, with a record of 3-6 and four consecutive losses weighing heavily on their shoulders. The team is grappling with significant injuries and lineup changes, speaking to the ongoing adversity they’ve faced. However, a bright spot amid these challenges is emerging: Rico Dowdle, an undrafted free agent from the University of South Carolina, who has stepped up as the team’s leading running back.
Rico Dowdle’s Ascent
Rico Dowdle's journey to becoming the starting running back for the Cowboys is a testament to resilience and perseverance. Despite going undrafted, his promotion to lead back is now underscored by a solid set of performances. Dowdle has amassed 374 rushing yards on 83 carries this season, boasting an average of 4.5 yards per carry. His impact is not limited to the ground game; he has also contributed three receiving touchdowns, showcasing versatility and reliability. In a statement that embodies his journey, Dowdle remarked, "Undrafted to now being the starting running back for America's Team. Definitely, I take great pride in that."
Dowdle’s career-high performance came in Week 5 against the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he notched 87 rushing yards and a 22-yard receiving touchdown. Despite the Cowboys’ overall struggles, his individual contributions stand out as a beacon of hope for the franchise. The team’s previous running back, Tony Pollard, departed for the Tennessee Titans, creating a void that Dowdle is endeavoring to fill with determination and grit.
Support from the Top
Head Coach Mike McCarthy has been vocal in his support of Dowdle, highlighting the significance of providing him with opportunities to excel. McCarthy said, "Definitely, you have to get him the ball. That's my focus to continue to get him opportunities. He's the lead back." This endorsement is not just a nod to Dowdle’s capabilities but also a reflection of the confidence placed in him by the coaching staff.
Echoing this sentiment, backup quarterback Cooper Rush added, "Yeah, Rico's running hard. He's running fast, running hard. He broke a couple long ones there for us... He's been consistent, and we look forward to every time he touches it." Such high praise from within the team is likely to bolster Dowdle’s confidence as he navigates the remainder of the season.
Challenges and Opportunities
The Cowboys are hindered not only by a thin defensive line but also by significant injuries, including to star quarterback Dak Prescott, who is out for the season due to hamstring surgery. DaRon Bland is out with a stress fracture, and the team is working to integrate rookies Tyler Guyton and Cooper Beebe into the offensive line. These challenges require adaptation and resilience, traits that Dowdle personifies.
The team's rushing game, averaging 83.7 yards per game (the second-fewest in the league), is an area needing improvement. Dowdle recognizes this and is committed to addressing it. Discussing the team's tactic, he shared, "The committee approach was something that wasn't working for us, so I stood firm on wanting to find that rhythm since the beginning. You want to be able to get out there and get the bulk of the carries and find that rhythm. ... It's all about finding that rhythm."
A Glimpse into the Future
As the Cowboys prepare to face the Houston Texans, whose run defense ranks 11th in the league, Dowdle remains a pivotal player in their strategy. His ongoing battle with previous injuries, including a hip fracture three years ago, has shaped his current mindset. Now, feeling better conditioned and mentally poised, Dowdle said, "In my past, it was all about the injuries and things like that, but now I feel that I've got my body in the best shape and best position possible for me."
With Coach McCarthy's confidence and Dowdle's drive to succeed, the Dallas Cowboys have reasons to remain hopeful. While the journey may be fraught with challenges, Dowdle’s resilience is a promising element in their quest for redemption. As the season progresses, his performances could well dictate their ability to turn things around, making him a key figure worth watching in the weeks to come.