The Dallas Cowboys earned their sixth win of the season after a dominant 30-14 victory over the Carolina Panthers. The win gives the Cowboys their third win in four weeks. One of the main reasons the Cowboys have looked like a different team in recent weeks is the improvement in the running game.
For the third straight week, Rico Dowdle rushed for over 100 yards in a game, finishing with 149 yards on 25 carries against the Panthers. Dowdle’s 149 represents the most yards he has rushed for in a game all season. However, are these recent performances inflated?
Two of the Cowboys’ last three opponents have been the Panthers and the New York Giants. Both teams rank among the worst run defenses in the league, along with the third opponent, the Cincinnati Bengals, ranking below the top 20 in run defense. Yes, Dowdle’s performances have been bright spots in such a dark season, but do they really mean anything?
MORE: Rico Dowdle reacts after finally being named Dallas Cowboys running back
Dowdle is having his moment as a leader in Dallas. However, should the latest performance give Cowboys fans hope that Dowdle will be the player to lead the unit in 2025? The last three games of the season will be a very good hearing for this possibility.
— Enjoy free Cowboys coverage from the Dallas Cowboys on SI —
Dallas Cowboys Make Surprising Trade During 3-Round NFL Mock Draft
4 Big Players Not Named Ashton Jeanty Cowboys Could Be Targeted in 2025 NFL Draft
Updated 2025 NFL Draft Order: Cowboys Closer to Top 10 After Week 14
Meet Abby Summers: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleading Rookie
